…Says Every Single Nigerian who Journeyed on Rail During the Festive Period is Grateful to the Former Transportation Minister for His Achievements
Erstwhile National Publicity Secretary of the defunct New People’s Democratic Party (nPDP) and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze says with the completion of track laying on the Port Harcourt- Aba Eastern Narrow-Gauge Rail line, coupled with other completed and functional lines, prospects are high that price of commodities would dwindle when it eventually begins passenger and freight operations towards the first quarter of 2024 as pegged by the Nigerian Railway Corporation.
In a statement made available to to the media, Chief Eze said Nigerians are beginning to appreciate the determination of former Transportation Minister, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Amaechi, in crafting a solid masterplan for rail transportation in the country.
Reminiscing on the conception stage of the projects when the then Minister was smeared for his stance on ensuring that all prerequisite frameworks and best financing options were adopted for the unhindered completion of the projects within time, Eze said most of those who vilified the former Minister are enjoying the train rides today and even benefited in the free service during the festive season.
Eze said Amaechi stands on excellence in whatever he embarks on and never allows the word impossibility to creep into his lexicon. “Amaechi’s watchword is excellence and whatever he sets out to achieve he goes all out for it because the result will impress even the worst of critiques.”
He said given the high cost of living and general hardship orchestrated by the fuel subsidy removal and the ineptitude of government in solving the least of problems that bother the basic needs of citizens, rail transportation, as is the case in civilized societies, has emerged the best alternative for passenger and freight conveyance to reduce the high cost of basic commodities which are way beyond the reach of the commoners who barely can afford a square meal per day.
During the Christmas and New Year season, railway train services were made free for passengers from Iddo to Kajola, Ido Iddo to Ijoko, Kajoala to Apapa, Apapa to Kajoala; Lagos to Ibadan and Ibadan to Lagos.
Eze said those who benefited from the free train ride have reasons to say a word or two of gratitude to former Transportation Minister, Chibuike Amaechi, who made train services possible in and for Nigerians at this hard times.
Eze commended CCECC for staying true to the terms of the contract according to schedule. He also hailed the Nigerian Railway Corporation and the Ministry of Transportation for supervising every bit and stage of the project to ensure its completion for the enjoyment of Nigerians.
The APC Chief called on the federal government to redouble efforts in the fight against insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, terrorism and other forms of insecurity that have limited the full operation of train services across the country.
Recall that Nigerian Railway Corporation had stated that their night activities are being limited because of insecurity and that is not how train services operate. Train operation is 24 hours non-stop. But that is not the case in Nigeria.
Eze said Nigerians will continue to be grateful to Amaechi for the foundation he laid for the good of the country through enduring legacies.
