Abia State government to partner NRC to improve Transportation

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has restated the importance of transportation in driving Nigeria’s economic growth and development. This was during a meeting with the new Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr. Kayode Opeifa, and his team on Tuesday, April 16.

Governor Otti raised concerns over the stalled progress of the Umuahia–Enugu railway section, originally scheduled for completion in early 2023, but expressed confidence that with the new NRC leadership, the project’s pace and quality will improve. He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to modernizing Abia’s transport sector to stimulate economic activity.

He revealed that the State is working on a modern transport model similar to what exists at Paddington in the UK, aiming to transform Umuahia into a 24-hour transport hub where rail and bus services converge.

Addressing security concerns around NRC assets in Aba, the Governor assured of necessary support, highlighting his administration’s readiness to partner with any agency or individual committed to developing the State, regardless of whether the project is federal or state-owned.

Dr. Opeifa, in his remarks, emphasized the corporation’s goal to connect all major South-East cities to the national rail network, reduce inflation, cut transportation costs, and boost the economy.

The meeting also featured a presentation on the ongoing Umuahia Railway and Bus Terminal project by UCDA General Manager, Mr. Kingsley Agomoh, and was attended by senior government officials.