Τhe Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Alkali has reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian government to ensuring the timely completion and full operation of the Port Harcourt-Maiduguri rail network.
The minister highlighted the transformative impact of the rail project on trade, market access, business operations, and agricultural production.
In a statement from the Special Assistant (Public Affairs) to the minister, Jamilu Ja’afaru, Alkali emphasized that the Port Harcourt-Maiduguri rail line is a clear testament to the current administration’s dedication to infrastructural development, economic growth, and national cohesion.
Alkali outlined the multifaceted benefits of the 1,657km rail network, cutting across 13 states, including Rivers, Abia, Enugu, Benue, Nasarawa, Plateau, Bauchi, Gombe, Borno, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Ebonyi, and Adamawa. He stated that the rail project goes beyond transportation; it is a transformation project that connects Nigeria, facilitates the movement of goods and people, and drives economic growth.
The minister elaborated on the specific advantages for different states along the rail line. For instance, Rivers State is poised to become a major hub for commerce and trade, enhancing its economic status. Abia, known for vibrant commerce and industry, will experience improved business linkages, supporting local industries and empowering small and medium-sized enterprises.
The rail line is expected to stimulate agricultural productivity in states like Benue, reduce post-harvest losses, and foster rural development. In the North-East, states like Bauchi, Gombe, and Borno will benefit significantly from the quick and cost-effective movement of goods and people, contributing to social integration, economic growth, and post-insurgency reconstruction.
Additionally, the rail network will enhance tourism potential in Akwa Ibom and Cross River, providing easier access to cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes. Ebonyi and Adamawa states will experience improved trade and commerce, facilitated by efficient transportation.
Senator Said Alkali concluded by expressing his determination to ensure that the Port Harcourt-Maiduguri rail project not only meets international standards but also serves as a catalyst for national development.
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