Minister Nyesom Wike, at the helm of affairs in the Federal Capital Territory, affirmed that the Abuja Rail Mass Transit (ARMT) project is at an impressive 95% completion stage, heightening expectations for its scheduled launch in May.
Wike made this announcement during a meeting with the Belgian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Daniel Bertrand, in Abuja on Wednesday.
He recognized the security risks posed by the lack of adequate public transportation in the city, emphasizing that a significant number of operators are operating without proper registration.
“When we came on board, we found out that the Abuja Light Rail was not functional, and we felt that it would be a good thing for the people if we decongest the city by making it function.
“So, President Bola Tinubu directed that whatever can be done, should be done, so that in his one year in office, the light rail will come on board for the use of the residents.
“The people can use it going out of the city, going to the airport and other area councils, and instead of going with their vehicles, they can take the train.
“I can announce to you that we are almost there. The company handling the project, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), is almost 95 per cent complete.
“By the grace of God, we believe that in May, Mr President will inaugurate it,” the minister said.
Furthermore, Wike revealed ongoing talks with private investors to overhaul the public transportation system in the FCT.
Admitting the shortfall in public transportation as a security issue within the city, he noted that a significant portion of operators operated without proper registration.
Read also: Wike vows To End Open grazing in Abuja
He voiced apprehension over residents boarding vehicles without knowing their legitimacy, mentioning ongoing efforts to register all public transport operators.
The minister also mentioned that the government had finalized plans to construct taxi and bus terminals where residents could utilize services from registered and identified operators.
Moreover, he elaborated that the construction of the terminals is scheduled to start in the following month, pending approval from the Bureau of Public Procurement.
The minister also said that discussion was ongoing with the Inspector General of Police, the Director-General, Department of State Services, and cattle herders on ways to stop open grazing in the city.
He explained that the discussion was to get the herders to understand why they should not rear cattle within the city.
“I can tell you that it is not what we want, but believing that the matter will be resolved and alternative will be provided for the herders to rear their cattle,” he said.
Wike also indicated his intention to establish partnerships with the Belgian government in the areas of security and agriculture.
Previously, the Ambassador stated that the purpose of the visit was to acquaint himself with the minister’s strategies for mass public transportation, receive updates on the Abuja Light Rail project, and understand the stance on open grazing within the city.
Bertrand expressed his pleasure with the progress in the FCT, particularly praising the verdant surroundings, abundance of trees, and alleviated traffic congestion.
He mentioned that the Belgian government was open to forming partnerships in areas where both parties could benefit.