Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has said that the Abuja light rail project is near 95% completion, saying that the project will be inaugurated in May by President Bola Tinubu.
The minister made the disclosure during a courtesy visit by the Belgium Ambassador to Nigeria, Pieter Leenknegt, in his office in Abuja on Thursday.
Leenknegt had raised concern over an alternative mode of transportation for FCT residents.
The minister also reiterated that his administration is working out a permanent solution to end open grazing in the nation’s capital.
Wike explained that the situation requires patience in handling because the cattle rearers in question are indigenes of the FCT.
The Minister also mentioned ongoing discussions with private investors aimed at transforming the public transport system in the FCT.
He recognized the shortage of public transport as a security issue, emphasizing that many operators are unregistered. The minister expressed worries about residents being unaware of the details of the transport services they use, and he noted ongoing efforts to get all public transport operators registered.
Wike also mentioned that the government has finalized plans to construct taxi and bus stations where people can access services from registered and identifiable operators, with construction expected to begin within a month, pending the Bureau of Public Procurement’s approval.
On his part, the Belgian Ambassador expressed interest in understanding the minister’s strategies for public transportation, seeking updates on the Abuja Light Rail project, and questioning the city’s policy on open grazing.
The Ambassador, Leenknegt, commended the progress in the FCT, especially appreciating the greenery and reduced traffic congestion. He indicated that the Belgian government was eager to explore partnerships in areas of shared interest.
