President Bola Tinubu, on Wednesday, approved the extension of free train ride on the Abuja Rail Mass Transit, (Metro Rail) until the end of the year.
Tinubu announced this at the inauguration of the metro rail, saying, “Our dear landlord (referring to Nyesom Wike) and his team, I heard you saying two months free ride. I appeal to you to make it till the end of the year. That will give the people hope and reasons to celebrate.”
The president said, “Today marks the milestone of our match towards enduring progress as a country, especially in the FCT.
“Infrastructure is an enabler of jobs, economic growth, and prosperity. We are committed to building a world-class capital city, and the commercial operation of the Abuja Metro station is a testament to that commitment.”
Speaking further, Tinubu said, “Making our citizens the central focus of our development is crucial for Nigeria’s success. We collectively will not let you down.”
He noted that the commencement of operation of the metro line was a dream come true for all Nigerians, just as he lauded Nyesom Wike, the FCT minister and his team for revitalising the Abuja rail project for sustainable development.
“Barr Nyesom Wike, “Mr. Project, thank you for giving us this home and for your sincere commitment to shared values,” Tinubu said, adding that “Your revolutionary vision is inspiring many and yielding remarkable results in the FCT.”
Earlier, Wike noted that the goal of the metro line was to ease commuting in the city.
He expressed delight in meeting up with the mandate given to him by President Tinubu upon resumption of office, to ensure that the Abuja Light Rail was ready before his one-year anniversary.
“It represents a significant milestone in our collective efforts to enhance the infrastructure and livability of our great capital and her inhabitants. As we mark the first year of your transformative leadership, Mr. President, this event underscores our shared commitment to progress, innovation, and the enduring prosperity of Nigeria.”
Speaking on the overview of the project, Chinedum Elechi, the mandate secretary of transportation, FCT administration, said the ARMT system has 12 diesel multiple units each with a capacity to accommodate a minimum of 700 passengers.
“Each train is designed to run a minimum of 14 trips per day. Meaning that one train can transport approximately 9,800 passengers per day.
“The two Lots, i.e Lot 1A from Idu Station to Gbazango and Lot 3, from Metro Station to the airport will operate two trains each simultaneously every day, which brings a total daily passenger count to 39,200 commuters. In 25 operational days in a month, it will be approximately 980,000 commuters,” Elechi said.
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