By Daniel Tyokua
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) on Friday, flagged off the rehabilitation of Abuja rail Mass transit, metro station valued at five billion naira.
Speaking at the flag off ceremony, the permanent secretary secretary (FCTA), Mr Olusade Adesola said the move was to restore the vital transportation infrastructure, which he described as the life blood of Abuja city.
He said the project which is being handled by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation Ltd (CCECC), will play a crucial role in easing transportation challenges and enhancing mobility for residents.
Adesola explained that the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic necessitated the temporary shutdown of the rail system, as part of measures to curb the spread of the virus.
He added that during the period of inactivity, hoodlums vandalised essential equipment of the rail system, describing the development as setback.
The permanent secretary said that contracts for the provision of security for the ARMT System have been awarded.
“We are taking stringent measures to safeguard this valuable asset. We will not allow the actions of a few vandals to undermine the progress and potential of this essential public service.
“We will leave no stone unturned in restoring the Abuja Light Rail System to its former glory and ensuring it surpasses its previous performance,” he said.
He explained that the rehabilitation would involve the repair and replacement of damaged equipment, upgrading of facilities, and implementing modern security measures to protect against future threats.
The permanent secretary assured residents that the process would be expedited without compromising on quality, and “we will soon witness the return of a more efficient and reliable transportation system.
“This is because revitalisation of the Abuja Rail Mass Transit System is not just about repairing physical infrastructure; it is a testament to the resilience of our city and its people.
“It showcases our determination to overcome challenges and our unwavering commitment to the welfare of our citizens”
The Director of Transportation, FCTA, Mr Joseph Akinteye, explained that the ARMT system rehabilitation project, consisting of Lots 1 A and 3, which span 45.245 kilometres (km), would be delivered at five billion naira.
Akinteye said the ARMT system phase 1, which comprises Lots 1 and 3, made up of 77.775 km out of the six Lots designated by the Transportation Master plan was awarded in 2007.
He, however, said only Lots 1 A and 3, made up of 45.245 km was completed in 2017, commissioned in 2018, and followed by a trial operation service which lasted for 20 months.
“Unfortunately, the trial service ended abruptly in March 2020, due to the advent of COVID- 19 pandemic and its extent protocols,” he said.
He said that the rehabilitation, when completed, would bring back the Metro Line services.
According to him, the ripple impacts would be an immense relief to the present unpleasant effects of the fuel subsidy removal on Nigerians and especially the FCT residents.
The Managing Director, CCECC, Mr Wang Xixue, said that the successful commencement of rehabilitation of the vandalised components of the ARMT system was critical to the development of the transportation system in the FCTA.
He said that rehabilitation expected to be completed in 12 months would be completed as soon as possible.
Wang noted that the project would involve the rehabilitation of the vandalised components of Lot 1A and Lot 3, clear obstacles, and pave the way for resuming the commercial operation of the ARMT system.
“As a socially responsible company, we are concerned about the development of the public transport system in FCTA and within Nigeria.
“We will maintain close cooperation with relevant stakeholders, to contribute to the development of an advanced public railway transport system.,” he said.
