Reviving the lost Glory of two Sister-Nations that Traditionally and Historically Share Common Cultural Norms and Values (Nigeria and Niger Republic) Through a Robust Rail Transport System:
In what appears to be a welcome development to the Nigerian nation and Niger Republic towards sustaining the hitherto cordial relationship between the two nations, the Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Ahmed Alkali has reiterated the federal government’s resolute determination in meeting the yearnings and aspirations of the citizenry through the provision of standard gauge railway lines across the country.
Addressing a meeting of stakeholders comprising officials from the African Development Bank, China Bank, African Finance Corporation and Development Bank of South Africa, which took place at the ministry’s conference hall, the minister explained that arrangements have reached an advance stage in acquiring a facility of $1.3 billion for the completion of the ongoing Kano-Katsina-Jibiya-Maradi (Niger Republic) single track, standard gauge Railway Project and branch line from Kano to Dutse.
According to him, the realisation of the multi billion naira project would make a significant impact to the socioeconomic wellbeing of both Nigerians and Nigeriens, thereby strengthening the symbiotic relationship that exists among the people since time immemorial.
In their contribution, the M.D Nigerian Railway Corporation, Mr. Fidet Okhiria, a senior Director with AfDB, Alh. Muhammad Abdulrazak assured the citizenry of brighter days ahead given the interest shown by the notable financial institutions towards financing the project.
According to them, along the corridors, there are some economic values that locals do benefit through having access aimed at improving their legitimate means of livelihood.
They maintained that railway services began over a century ago in Nigeria, adding that no responsive government can fold its arms while the transportation sector suffers a great set back.
In a similar development, the transportation minister also received in audience the chairman of the supervisory board, China export and credit insurance corporation, Tang Zhigang and members of his esteemed delegation who paid him a courtesy call in his office.
The team comprises of Zhang Zhichen, Chairman/CEO of the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), Mr. Xin Chen, General manager, human resources department, Mr. Yixiong Zhang, general manager, strategic research department and Ms. Rongrong Gu, supervisor strategic client department among others.
Umar Alkali Jibril, Special Assistant, Media and Publicity.
Office of the Hon. Minister of Transportation.