Abuja light rail project will be ready in the next eight months, contractor handling the project, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, has promised.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima got the commitment from the company during a meeting with the CCECC Chairman, Mr Jason Zhang, in Abuja.
Senior Special Assistant to the VP on Media and Communications, Stanley Nkwocha, disclosed this on Wednesday, in a statement titled, ‘CCECC commits to delivering Abuja Light Rail project in 8 months.’
“Vice President Kashim Shettima extracted this commitment from the management of CCECC when its Chairman, Mr Jason Zhang, led some members of his management team on a courtesy call at the Presidential Villa,” the statement said.
Shettima described CCECC as part of Nigeria’s history, saying the Chinese construction giant has played a pivotal role in developing Nigeria’s landmark projects, adding that their commitment to the development of Nigeria and Africa is commendable.
He said : “You have been in this country for 42 years. We have to commend you for all the beautiful initiatives and support over the years.
“We share a lot in common with the people of China, just as you have been with us through thick and thin.
“You have the financial firepower and the willingness to support Nigeria and other African countries without interfering in our local politics. This we appreciate a lot.”
He assured the corporation that the Bola Tinubu administration would sustain the existing relationship with the company and the people of China.
He said the Abuja rail project, like others, remains dear to the President and Nigerians.
Speaking earlier, the Managing Director of CCECC, David Waig, reiterated the company’s commitment towards delivering the project within the stipulated period.
According to him, the CCECC will go above board and leave no stone unturned in ensuring the delivery of the Abuja light rail line come May 2024.
However, he called on the Federal Capital Territory Administration to engage an operational company that would quickly see the smooth takeoff of the rail project.(vitalnewsngr.com)
