The Federal Government has announced a delay in the commencement date for the Port Harcourt – Aba section of the Port Harcourt to Maiduguri narrow gauge rail line, pushing it to April 2024.
Senator Saidu Alkali, the Minister for Transportation, conveyed this information in Port Harcourt after inspecting the reconstructed rail tracks.
Expressing regret over the postponement, Alkali urged patience from the public, assuring that the contractor would complete the project by April.
He instructed the contractor to ensure the rail line’s connection to the Port Harcourt and Onne ports in the state.
Alkali stated, “Although the initial deadline was March, technical considerations necessitated an extension to April. I’m also seeking a commitment to linking the rail line to Port Harcourt Port and Onne Port to facilitate transportation.”
Acknowledging the government’s dedication to project completion, Alkali mentioned ongoing efforts to secure funding for the Calabar-Enugu-Abuja standard gauge rail line.
Regarding the Ibadan to Abuja section, he confirmed that the government was actively addressing related matters.
He emphasized the government’s determination to provide relief to citizens and called for public support and understanding during project execution.
