The Federal Government (FG) has officially inaugurated the 6.2-kilometre Port Harcourt-Aba railway project, commencing train operations between Abia and Rivers states.
News About Nigeria reports that the declaration was made by the Minister of Transportation, Sen. Saidu Alkali, during an in-ceremony of the rail service held in Port Harcourt on Tuesday.
Sen. Alkali said that the project forms a crucial part of the 1,443km Port Harcourt to Maiduguri narrow gauge rail project.
The Port Harcourt to Aba section, he noted, marks the initial phase of the Eastern narrow-gauge railway, which will connect five geopolitical zones of the country.
Expressing gratitude for the completion of the Port Harcourt to Aba section, Sen. Alkali said the railway will provide relief to the people.
He said that the Eastern narrow gauge encompasses the South-South, South-East, North-Central, North-West, and North-East regions of Nigeria.
In addition, Sen. Alkali announced plans for the commencement of the Aba-Enugu rail project.
He said efforts are ongoing to convert locomotives from diesel to compressed natural gas (CNG) in collaboration with investors to reduce transportation costs.
Sen. Alkali revealed that passenger train services have officially commenced from Port Harcourt to Aba, with plans for further expansion to Enugu and freight services to Onne and Port Harcourt seaports.
Assuring Nigerians of safety along the rail routes, the minister stated that arrangements were being made with security agencies.
He also announced free train rides from Port Harcourt to Aba between May 1 and May 4, with full commercial operations set to resume on May 7, 2024.
