By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
History was made on Tuesday as the FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike stated,” Promise made Promise fulfilled”, as he finally delivered the Abuja Light Rail to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to officially inaugurate the rail line for commercial operations to mark the President’s one year in office.
Wike said that his administration is aware of the difficulties residents experience while going from one place to another, and so he committed himself to change the situation by providing a modern transportation system.
The FCT Minister said, “To me today is my happiest day, we are talking about the Renewed Hope Agenda, it is giving hope back to the people. So what we are here seeing today is a reality. I am happy because I can come to the city and go back.”
The FCT Minister recalled how President Tinubu, who has visited the FCT had requested that he wants to ride on the metro line which means that there exists a metro line which has ceased functioning.
“Why does he want to ride a metro line which was not operational, this was because he knew that it was not operational, so he gave a marching order to make it operational for the interest of residents of Abuja.”
Mr. President, it was that directive to action, so when we departed we asked the transplant Secretariat what happened to the metro line that it is not in use.”
“It was commissioned on May 17, 2028 , no roads then for people to access the metro line.”
“It was awarded then at $30 billion, so we pleaded with the office of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Minister of Finance and the Accountant General to work together. The CBN gave the money to CCECC, the contractors, with the support of the Ministry of Finance and the Accountant General, without them, it wouldn’t have been possible.”
The FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud said, “Today marks not only the inauguration of a modern transportation system but also a testament to the power of collaboration and determination in bringing about positive change.”
The Abuja light rail is not just a mode of transportation; it is a symbol of progress, connectivity, and accessibility for all.
“As we embark on this new chapter, let us continue to work together to harness the full potential of this infrastructure for of our community and generations to come.”
To the residents of Abuja and beyond, I extend our gratitude for your patience and support throughout this journey, she said.
Meanwhile, President Tinubu after inaugurating the Abuja Light Rail for commercial operations has given six months of free ride to residents of the FCT.
President Tinubu said, “As we gather here to commemorate the first anniversary of my administration, we are also celebrating the fruit of collaboration, dedication, progress, and foresightedness.”
He commended the FCT Minister for his efforts in the project.
He said, “The huge investment you’ve saved and put on this project is there for the people to remember. Transportation gives hope and access to the various individuals and organizations.”
Mr. President also recalled making a.public demand to ride on the Metro line.
” I made a request, a public request and a challenge to Nyesom Wike. Then, I did not know that he would be able to deliver this project on time. I said ‘Don’t give me land, Mr. landlord. Give me the assurance that I will be able to ride on the Metro Line’. He laughed and nodded his head. I am very proud that today, he delivered on that promise, Tinubu stated.
