In his first official assignment, Mr. Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), conducted an inspection of the Abuja Rail Mass Transit (ARMT) System rehabilitation project on Wednesday. The visit, which took place at the ARMT Metro Station in Abuja, showcased Wike’s commitment to tackling challenges in public transportation within the FCT.
Wike shared his determination to address transportation issues, emphasizing his focus on transforming the sector in the short term for improved public transportation in the capital city. He voiced concerns about the non-functional state of the existing metro station and questioned the possibility of swift repairs to enhance its usability.
Highlighting the importance of completing ongoing projects before embarking on new ones, Wike stressed the need for resource availability and effective project management. He conveyed his commitment to seeing the rail transport system through to its completion, with a strategic approach to tackling traffic congestion.
During the inspection, Wike urged the construction company, CCECC Nig. Ltd, to uphold quality in project delivery. The minister’s subsequent train ride from the Metro Station to Airport and Idu Stations provided firsthand insight into the ongoing rehabilitation project, which he lauded as a positive endeavor.
Enthusiastically, Wike affirmed that the financial resources for the rehabilitation were secured, and he directed the Permanent Secretary of FCT Administration, Mr. Adesola Olusade, to ensure prompt payment to the contractor. He expressed his aim to commission the project for public use in the upcoming months.
Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, the Minister of State for FCT, echoed the sentiment that assessing and resolving the challenges of the rail transport system would contribute to its public functionality. She cited the system as part of President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to offer palliative measures to the public.
Admiring Wike’s reputation as a “Mr. Project,” the Permanent Secretary highlighted the minister’s commitment to tangible progress by choosing a project site for his first official visit. Olusade detailed the hurdles faced by the ARMT system, including vandalism during the COVID-19 lockdown, which prompted engagement of private security companies to salvage the situation. Notably, operational challenges have been addressed, with the Abuja Urban Mass Transport Company assigned to oversee operations.
Further elaborating on the project, Mr. Joseph Akinteye, Director of Transportation, FCTA, explained that the ARMT system rehabilitation project encompasses Lots 1 A and 3, covering 45.245 kilometers. He elaborated that the initial phase, comprising Lots 1 and 3, was awarded in 2007, but only the specified Lots 1 A and 3, totaling 45.245 km, were completed and commissioned by 2018. This development represents a significant step forward in the efforts to enhance public transportation in the Federal Capital Territory.
