President Bola Tinubu has given a nod to the extension of the complimentary train services on the Abuja Rail Mass Transit, commonly known as the Metro Rail, through to the year’s end.
This approval was announced during his speech at the inauguration of the Abuja metro rail operations in Abuja on Wednesday.
Initially, Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, had declared free train rides for a two-month period to alleviate commuting difficulties for FCT residents.
However, Tinubu urged for a prolonged extension, aiming to inspire hope and provide residents with something to celebrate.
“Our dear landlord and his team, I heard you saying two months free ride. I appeal to you to make it till the end of the year. Since today you’re not going to charge me, that will give the people hope and reasons to celebrate,” Tinubu said.
The Abuja Light Rail project was initially conceived to address the transportation challenges in the FCT and its surrounding areas, specifically targeting issues such as heavy traffic and frequent congestion.
On August 24, Wike announced that the completion of the Abuja Rail Mass Transit was scheduled to take eight months.
The rail project, consisting of six phases, was financed through loans from the China EXIM Bank.
It was inaugurated by former President Muhammadu Buhari on July 12, 2018, but suffered vandalism shortly after, leading to its shutdown.
Also, on May 17, Wike stated that Tinubu would initiate the inauguration of completed projects in the FCT on May 27.
“By the approval of Mr. President, we believe that from May 27, we shall begin the inauguration of various projects and will end on June 6,” Wike said.
“Particularly on May 27, President Tinubu will inaugurate commercial operations of the Abuja light rail, also known as the Abuja metro line, and we will carry out the final inspection of the project on May 20.”
Wike had also stated that infrastructure, security, and education have received significant focus since he assumed the role of FCT minister.
He also announced that the FCT administration would commence the construction of 10,000 affordable housing units, known as the ‘Renewed Hope City,’ starting in 2025.
