Gov Alex Otti Advocates for Rail Restoration in Abia State

In an important development, Alex Otti, the governor of Abia State under the Labour Party, recently met with a delegation from the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Eastern District. Led by Mr. Moddibo Mohammed, this delegation provided updates on the progress of a critical rail rehabilitation project aimed at revitalizing rail transport in the region.

For many years, rail transport in the Eastern region had been dormant, but this project is set to breathe new life into this vital mode of transportation. The project, led by the Nigerian Railway Corporation, Eastern District, is a multi-phase endeavor with ambitious goals.

The first phase involves laying down an impressive 63 kilometers of new rail tracks, spanning from Port Harcourt to Aba. The NRC officials conveyed promising news that this initial phase is on track to be completed by the end of this year.

Moving on to the second phase, which stretches from Aba to Umuahia, the project is expected to be finalized in the first quarter of 2024, according to the NRC officials. This development promises a much-needed boost to the region’s connectivity and transportation infrastructure.

The NRC delegation also sought assistance from the State Government in addressing a critical concern: the vandalism of rail tracks stored in various parts of the state. Additionally, they requested support for enhanced security operations, including security patrol vehicles, to protect these vital rail installations.

Alex Otti expressed a deep interest in the project and gave his full endorsement for the resumption of train services on the Eastern tracks. He highlighted the substantial economic benefits of this initiative, emphasizing how it would catalyze economic growth in the state and the broader region. By facilitating the transportation of goods and people across different locations, this project could unlock significant potential.

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In a show of support and commitment, the State Government has pledged to partner with the NRC to ensure the efficient operation of the railway system within the state. Security concerns regarding vandalism and the protection of railway installations will be addressed by deploying security agencies across the state.

This important meeting was attended by key government officials, including the Commissioner for Transport, Comrade Sunny Onwuma, and the Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Engr. Monday Ikechukwu, among others. These discussions reflect a shared commitment to rejuvenating rail transport in the Eastern region, with the potential to bring about transformative changes in the state’s transportation landscape.