Governor of Abia State Alex Otti recently met with a delegation of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Eastern District, led by Mr. Moddibo Mohammed. He was updated on the progress of the rail rehabilitation project undertaken by the corporation.
The project’s objective is to restore the rail transport system in the state and the region, which has lain dormant for an extended period. The NRC officials reported that the first phase of the project, which involves laying 63 kilometres of new rail tracks from Port Harcourt to Aba, is set to be completed by the end of the year. They projected completion of the second phase, spanning from Aba to Umuahia, by the first quarter of 2024. The NRC officials also sought the State Government’s assistance in curbing vandalism of rail tracks stored in various parts of the state.
Additionally, they requested for security patrol vehicles to enhance security operations. We have a keen interest in this project and fully endorse the resumption of train services on the Eastern tracks. This initiative will catalyze the economic growth of the state and the region by facilitating the transportation of goods and people across different locations.
The State Government will partner with the NRC to ensure the railway system’s efficient operation in the state. We will also address security concerns by deploying security agencies to safeguard railway installations across the state. The meeting was attended by the Commissioner for Transport, Comrade Sunny Onwuma, Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities Engr. Monday Ikechukwu and other senior appointees of the government.
