Transportation Minister Visits Abuja Train Station, Laments Working Conditions

The Minister of Transportation, Saidu Alkali, has lamented the working conditions of the Idu Train station in Abuja.

During an unscheduled visit to the train station on Sunday, Alkali said the lifts and escalators are not working, which makes it very difficult for the elderly and disabled persons to use the train.

The minister also inspected the coaches and discovered several issues that needed urgent attention, adding that he received a complaint that the security escorts had not been paid their allowances in the last five months.

Alkali, therefore, said that the Managing Director of the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC), Fidet Okhiria, has a lot of queries to answer and might face disciplinary action.

Speaking with reporters, Alkali said, “I received a complaint from the security escorts that in the last five months, their allowances were not paid, and I am happy that the MD of NRC is appearing before the ministry on Tuesday to brief. So, if he comes, I am now well informed the lifts and escalators aren’t working, which makes it very difficult for the elderly and the disabled persons to use the train for travelling.

“Therefore, he would explain why disciplinary action wouldn’t be taken against him.”

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