The Federal Government has announced a delay in the commencement of train services on the vital Port Harcourt to Maiduguri rail line, now scheduled to begin in April. This postponement deviates from the original plan to launch at the end of March, indicating a temporary setback in one of the key infrastructural projects under former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.
Transportation Minister Saidu Alkali revealed the revised schedule during an inspection visit to the site in Port Harcourt. He attributed the delay to unforeseen challenges faced by the project contractors.
Despite the setback, the Minister expressed confidence in the project’s progress and the new timeline for completion. “This is the second time I am in Port Harcourt for the inspection of the rail line since I assumed office as the Minister of Transportation,” Alkali remarked. He specified that operations from Port Harcourt to Aba are now set to begin in April.
Furthermore, plans include extending the rail line to Port Harcourt and Onne Ports to facilitate direct rail connections from these critical seaports. Alkali appealed for public patience and support, reiterating the government’s commitment to delivering on its promises and enhancing infrastructure to benefit the populace.