The Federal Government on Monday in Lagos reiterated its commitment to boost rail transportation with a promise to provide more infrastructure.
President Goodluck Jonathan disclosed this during the official inauguration of two Diesel Multiple Units train sets and six air-conditioned passenger coaches at the Nigerian Railway Corporation Terminus.
Jonathan, who was represented by Vice-President Namadi Sambo, said the Federal Government had commenced the implementation of a 25-year transport sector development plan across the nation.
“This is part of the concerted efforts of our administration to steadily improve the railway rolling stock. It is the beginning. Within the next few months, more rolling stocks will be delivered.
“My presence here today is to further show the full resolve of this administration to bring Nigeria at par with modern railway services available globally by constantly upgrading our rolling stock.
“The ongoing railway rehabilitation will continue because of adequate funding from regular budget and SURE-P intervention,” Jonathan said.
Also speaking, the Minister of Transport, Sen. Idris Umar, said most of the rail transport projects across the country would be completed by the end of the year.
“I wish to assure the President, the Vice-President and all Nigerians of our determination to ensure the completion of ongoing railway projects across the country,” he said.
Umar commended the Federal Government for its commitment and support in executing the railway projects in the country.
In his address, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, the Chairman, NRC Board of Directors, attributed the economic development of any nation to the effective and functional operation of the rail system.
“The survival and indeed the extent of development of any economy depend very significantly on the extent of development and efficiency of its transportation system.
“Our intention is to improve on the infrastructure of the NRC to ensure it increases passengers and freight movements,” he said.
Tukur said the Board of the NRC would continue to provide the desired policy to ensure affordable, safe and value-added rail transport.
In his remarks, Gov. Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State, said new trains and coaches would improve the transport system in the state for the benefits of all residents.
Fashola, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, said the state needed rail infrastructure for its teeming population. Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday
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