FG Approves N1.3bn For Train Lines

The Federal Executive Council has approved N1.334 billion
for the commencement of work on new standard gauge railway lines.

Minister of Information, Labaran Maku who briefed journalists
alongside the Minister of Transport, Senator Idris Umar and Minister of works,
Mike Onolememen said the contract is for feasibility studies of five fast train
lines across the country.

He said the fast train lines are for Lagos, Osogbo- Abuja (615km)
which could be covered within three hours with five stops, Lagos-Shagamu-Benin
(300km) Ajaokuta-Obajana-Abuja (533km) and Benin-Onitsha-Aba (500km).

Maku noted that the proposed new standard gauge railway line
will create total job opportunities for 51 professionals and 115
non-professionals.

Giving an insight into the approval, Minister of Transport
Senator Umar said some private investors have already signified interest in the
projects as soon as feasibility studies were completed.

He said government was desirous to see the project to its
conclusion pointing out that the idea is to partner with the private sector to
develop the high speed train lines.

He further explained that “there will be international
advertisement for investors to show interest. There is no question of fear that
it is going to be a white elephants project”.