Borno govt to build North’s first intra-city rail network

Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum has unveiled plans to construct the North’s first intra-city rail network, connecting Maiduguri and its environs.

According to a statement by Governor Zulum’s Spokesperson, Malam Dauda Iliya, the pioneering project makes Borno the first among Nigeria’s 19 northern states to embark on such an initiative.

“The first phase of the project will feature 12 designated terminals within Maiduguri, linking major markets, schools, public places, and economically viable locations.

“The project’s scope may be expanded to cover local government areas in the future, facilitating seamless movement of passengers and goods, and opening up economic activities and corridors across the state.

“Borno’s Commissioner for Transport and Energy, Aliyu Mohammed Bamanga, inspected the proposed rail terminals and routes alongside the implementation partner, Eighteenth Engineering Company (EEC).

“Feasibility studies, environmental risk assessments, and community consultations are ongoing to ensure the project’s successful implementation.

“Upon completion, the project will ease transportation, revitalise the economy, create jobs, and re-engineer the city’s transportation network.

“The intra-city rail project will provide an alternative, cost-effective, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly means of transport, supporting other ongoing transport infrastructural projects.

“Zulum’s administration has previously commissioned electric and gas-powered taxis and buses at subsidised rates to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal.

“The governor has also embarked on various urban and rural infrastructure projects across the state, demonstrating his commitment to restoring peace and prosperity to Borno after over a decade of Boko Haram insurgency.”

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