Buhari flags off $1.2bn Kaduna-Kano railway project
By Daniel Azuama
President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday flagged off the construction of 203.8 kilometres Kaduna-Kano rail line project in Kano State.
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President Buhari at the groundbreaking ceremony in Kano said the project is vital to the establishment of a supply chain in railway transport.
According to him, this was owing to the fact that the rail line connects the major commercial cities of Kano and Kaduna to the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
He explained that the inauguration for the construction activities on the segment of the Lagos-Kano represents the commitment of this administration in transforming the Nigerian Railway system, to reduce the deficiency in transportation infrastructure.
He also stated that the project was to drive effective and more efficient transportation of passengers and freight within the country.
The President added saying, that the Kaduna – Kano railway project is to connect the Lagos – Ibadan Railway project via Abuja, Minna, Ilorin, Oshogbo on one end, and Maradi, The Niger Republic on the other.
According to him, the railway connection when completed will establish the ports in Lagos, as the choice for import and export business of the people of the landlocked Niger Republic and also boost economic activities.
Recall that the minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, had earlier hinted that the project will soon be flagged off.
Amaechi who was present explained that the scope of the railway project involves a 203km double track standard gauge railway from Kano to Kaduna.
He further said the railway along this route traverses the major cities of Kaduna, Zaria, and Kano with three (3) railway stations both for passenger and freight services at Rigachukun, Zaria, and Kano with varying capacities and categories.
“This project will link the Federal Capital, Abuja with the Commercial city of Kano and also link the ongoing Kano – Maradi project.
“The outstanding addendum, Ibadan – Abuja, will link the Sea Ports in Lagos to Maradi, Niger Republic. This I believe will greatly boost trade between the two countries and foster economic development.” He said.
“This railway line will present an opportunity for Nigerians to traverse between Abuja and Kano via Kaduna with relative ease,” he said.
Buhari flags off $1.2bn Kaduna-Kano railway project