FG Reveals Date for Commencement of Port Harcourt-Aba Railway Operations

The long-awaited commencement of operations for the Port Harcourt – Aba section of the Port Harcourt to Maiduguri narrow gauge rail line has been rescheduled by the federal government to April 2024, according to Senator Saidu Alkali, the Minister for Transportation. The announcement came on Friday in Port Harcourt following Alkali’s inspection of the reconstructed rail tracks.

Expressing regret over the postponement, Minister Alkali appealed for patience from the public, assuring that the contractor responsible for the project would ensure its completion by April. He also directed the contractor to ensure the linkage of the rail line to the Port Harcourt and Onne ports in the state.

Alkali emphasized the government’s dedication to the project, stating, “The commitment of the government is evident as we have decided to begin with the 15 per cent component of the federal government to repair the Port Harcourt to Aba section of the railway.” He further elaborated on plans to extend the line to the Port Harcourt and Onne Ports.

Regarding the Calabar-Enugu-Abuja standard gauge rail line, also awarded by the previous administration, efforts are underway to finalize funding arrangements before commencing the project. Alkali assured that the government was diligently working on financing and reiterated the administration’s commitment to delivering projects across the nation.

In addressing concerns about the Ibadan to Abuja section of the standard gauge rail line, the Minister disclosed that the government was actively addressing the matter. He urged the public to remain supportive and assured them of the government’s determination to provide relief and infrastructure development.