By Ayoni M. Agbabiaka
In order to redress the traffic problems in and around the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, the FCT Administration has redoubled its efforts to actualise the on-going multi-billion naira Abuja Light Rail Project, which is currently at 67 percent complete.
In view of this, a team of experts is scheduled to leave Nigeria for China this week to select the finishing materials of the respective train stations.
These were some the disclosures during the special media parley organised by the FCT Permanent Secretary; Engr. John Obinna Chukwu, for some FCT Operational Departments at the FCT Archives and History Bureau, Abuja.
According to Chukwu, the Lots1A and 3 of the project stretching from kilometre 0 Terminal at the Central Business District to Bazango near Kubwa is 67 percent complete.
The Permanent Secretary remarked that the Lot 1A starts from Idu through Gwagwa, Dei-Dei, Jibi to Bazango station while Biazhi to Kubwa falls in Lot 1B.
He said that the lane from Idu goes to the Airport station as well as Airport north station to serve the Airport and connecting the Federal Capital City and the satellite towns respectively.
He stated further that the on-going project is encompassing 12 rail stations, which is at various stages between 15-50 percent complete.
He pointed out that the rail stations construction work include the Abuja Metro Station at the Central Business District, through Wuye, Stadium Station to serve the National Stadium, National Park Station at Kukwuaba, Ring Road II Station, Wupa Station, Idu station with one leg through Gwagwa.
He noted that the completion of the project is very important to the well being of the Abuja city, as it will go a long way in reducing congestion and pollution associated with it.
He emphasised that the project when achieved would reduce travel time and cost, link the city centre and the satellite towns, stimulate economic and social growth in addition to the creation of employment to the teeming residents of the of the territory.
In her welcome speech, Director of Information and Communication, Mrs. Stella Ojeme, explained that the essence of the Parley is to bring the members of the fourth estate of the realm together with the officials of the FCT Administration to rub minds for the purpose of partnership.
Thus, she solicited for the continued cooperation of the media in publicising the activities of the FCT Administration to the residents of the Federal Capital Territory and Nigerians at large positively.
