The Minister of Transportation, Said Alkali, has pledged to oversee the timely completion and full operation of the PortHarcourt-Maiduguri rail network.
He noted that once the rail line is completed, it will facilitate trade, provide easy access to markets and business areas for Nigerians, and enhance the movement of agricultural products.
Alkali said the Port Harcourt-Maiduguri rail network is a clear testament to the current administration’s commitment to infrastructural development, economic growth, and national cohesion.
He expressed his resolve to ensure that the rail project is not only completed on time but also meets the highest international standards.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Special Assistant (Public Affairs) to the minister, Jamilu Ja’afaru on Monday in Abuja.
He said, “It is about the movement of goods, people, and opportunities. It is about connecting Nigeria and driving growth.
“The 1,657km rail network, cutting across 13 States; Rivers, Abia, Enugu, Benue, Nasarawa, Plateau, Bauchi, Gombe, Borno, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Ebonyi, and Adamawa promises to unlock unprecedented benefits”.
Stating the benefits of the projects for States, he said: “In Rivers State, the Port Harcourt-Maiduguri rail line will boost the state’s status as a major hub for commerce and trade, connecting it to key economic centers across the country.
“Abia, known for its vibrant commerce and industry, will enjoy improved business linkages, bolstering local industries and empowering small and medium-sized enterprises.
“The line will also stimulate agricultural productivity in states like Benue, known as Nigeria’s “food basket”, providing farmers with better access to markets, reducing post-harvest losses, and fostering rural development while Nasarawa and Plateau will reap the benefits in terms of easier movement of mineral resources, thereby boosting mining activities.”
He continued: “In the North-East, States like Bauchi, Gombe, and Borno will benefit significantly as the rail line would facilitate the quick and cost-effective movement of goods and people, fostering social integration, economic growth, and the much-needed post-insurgency reconstruction in the region.”
He added that Akwa Ibom and Cross River will witness enhanced tourism potential, with easier access to their rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes while Ebonyi and Adamawa states will also benefit from improved trade and commerce, fostered by the efficient transportation of goods and services.”
Source: Punch
