Buhari orders nationwide connection of rails

President Muhammadu Buhari, has ordered the 36 states of the federation, including Abuja to be connected by rail.

The presidential directive, was disclosed by the minister of transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, during the 15th National Council on Transportation meeting in Sokoto.

He revealed that the President, ordered him and the minister of power, works and housing, Babatunde Fashola, to connect the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) by rail.

According to him, “The President called two of us, myself and my colleague in the Ministry of Power, Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola; and told me specifically that I must ensure that the 36 states including Abuja are connected by rail”.

He added that the ongoing rail projects in the country would create employment opportunity for the teeming youths as well as grow the economy effectively and efficiently.

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Amaechi said the federal government was close to signing a contract agreement with General Electric for the rehabilitation of the rail lines across the country to ensure they are put to use in the very shortest time.

He further disclosed that government has ordered more Locomotives for the Standard Gauge rail lines.

The transport minister also said the President has given approval for the construction of Abuja-Itakpe rail line, while preparation is in top gear to commence activity on the Ajaokuta-Warri line which is set for completion in June 2018.