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President Muhammadu Buhari has commissioned the Abuja light rail system today. The President stated that the development was proof of his administration’s commitment to delivering on its promises. He said; “This morning I formally commissioned the Abuja Light Rail System. The completion of this very important project is a dream come true, and clearly demonstrates our administration’s commitment to the realization of critical infrastructural projects.
The Abuja Light Rail System is further evidence that we are a government that delivers on its promises. A modern rail service will greatly boost the FCT economy and enhance social life.
Our commitment to the vision for a modern, integrated rail system for Nigeria is total. The 2nd phase of the Abuja Light Rail will connect more parts of the city, while our standard-gauge National Rail is also taking shape, with the Lagos-Ibadan leg currently under construction.”
Goodluck Jonathan’s government had taken a $1.1 billion facility from China Exim Bank in 2012, $500 million of which was earmarked for the Abuja Light Rail project which was at 25 percent completion at the time he left office. The facility was obtained on a 2.5 percent interest over 20 years with a grace period of seven years. SURE-P also provided N20 billion counterpart funding for the project.
