President Bola Tinubu has guaranteed free rides for Rail Transit until December.
The President charged the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) minister, Nyesom Wike to extend the initial two month free ride period until December.
President Tinubu had taken a ride on the Abuja Metroline, emphasizing his commitment to strengthen Nigeria’s transportation sector.
“Our dear landlord and his team had initially proposed two months of free rides. However, I appealed to extend this until the end of the year, providing the people with hope and reason to celebrate.
“The re-commencement of this project is a dream come-through for this administration. Today, what we have in the FCT is another piece of evidence that we are a government that delivers on promises. I observe keenly other milestones that this administration has achieved especially in the areas of social services and other public utilities.
“Abuja light rail metro stands as a symbol of progress, connectivity, inclusivity and it signifies our determination to modernise our transportation infrastructure.” President Tinubu said.
He further commended the Wike-led FCTA, highlighting the progress of the Renewed Hope Agenda initiative.
According to him, the essence of the rehabilitated metroline rail system is to reduce traffic congestion in the FCT and enhance accessibility to all within and outside the city.
In Wike’s remarks, he affirmed the President’s RHA initiative with the symbolic kick off of the metro system.
“What is renewed hope agenda? It is giving back hope to the people, so, it is a reality. What we have seen today is a reality. People will now be happy that they can come to the city and go back using the train.
“So, when we talk about renewed hope, it appears as if it is a mere talk; it is a reality. I want to use Abuja to showcase that the renewed hope is real; it is working and is practical.
“So, Mr. President, this is part of a promise made and a promise fulfilled,” he said.
Furthermore, the FCT minister disclosed that the fund for the Metro Line rehabilitation contract, awarded at $30 million in 2018, was not released and couldn’t commence until President Tinubu came into office and gave the directive in September last year.
saharandaily