The Lagos-Ibadan rail project has assured of its completion by June this year by the Minister of Transportation, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi.
The Lagos-Abeokuta rail, according to the Vanguard report, had been completed earlier in the year as passengers were offered a three-month free ride. The period of the free ride was however shortened. Amaechi, who spoke to journalists at the weekend, noted that his commitment to the full take-off of rail transportation in Nigeria was to make life better for Nigerians.
The report said that Amaechi undertakes rail inspection trips sometimes twice a month, and he has directed CCECC to complete Iju-Agbado section in 2 weeks. The Ghanaian government recently sent a team, led by its Minister of Rail Development, Hon Joe Ghartey, to understudy the progress being made in Nigeria’s rail projects. The Lagos-Ibadan rail project is being executed at the cost of $1.6 billion and is funded with a loan from the Chinese government, the report said.
Amaechi further explained that the hitherto abandoned Itakpe-Warri rail line had been completed and commenced operation. It shall, for a start, be carrying 100 passengers per trip, until more coaches are purchased.
