Politics
Borno Governor Zulum Receives Praise For Proposed Intra-City Rail Project
Borno Governor Zulum Receives Praise For Proposed Intra-City Rail ProjectResidents of Maiduguri have expressed strong support for the state government’s plan to introduce an intra-city rail network aimed at easing movement within the city and its surrounding areas. In a series of interviews conducted on Tuesday, residents from various sectors, including government employees, business owners, and skilled workers, welcomed the initiative.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Hanna Bakur, a businesswoman based in the busy Post-office area, one of the city’s most populated commercial zones, described the development as timely. “The population of Maiduguri is growing daily, with people returning from villages and neighboring countries. If implemented, this project will help reduce the congestion we face, especially in the Post-office area every evening,” she said.
Aji Modu, another resident, emphasized that such developments would enhance the city’s appeal as it continues to grow. “Our state’s image has suffered due to the insurgency over the past decade. If the rail plan comes to fruition, it will help restore confidence, attract businesses, and encourage investors to return. The state lost so much during the insurgency,” he stated.
Hamisu Muhammad, the Mai-angwa (area head) of Abuja Talakawa, pointed out that the rail project would significantly benefit residents in the city’s outlying areas. “In the mornings, people from our area stand by the road waiting for Keke (motorcycles). If the governor can make this rail system a reality, coupled with the current Zulum bus service, our transportation challenges will be greatly reduced,” he noted.
Mafi Muhammad, a 300-level student at the University of Maiduguri, also hailed the project, particularly for its potential benefit to students living on the outskirts. “Students living far from the university will especially benefit from this development. While I don’t know the specific routes yet, as long as it connects the outer areas with the main town, it will be a great improvement,” she said.
The state government recently confirmed the project through Abdulrahman Bundi, Special Adviser to Governor Zulum on New Media. In a statement, Bundi revealed that the intra-city rail network would be the first of its kind in Nigeria’s northern states. The initial phase will feature 12 terminals in Maiduguri, connecting major markets, schools, public places, and key economic hubs.
Bundi also indicated that future expansions could extend the network to other local government areas. “This project will not only improve passenger and goods transportation but will also open up economic corridors, benefiting various sectors across the state,” he added.
Aliyu Mohammed Bamanga, the state’s Commissioner for Transport and Energy, recently visited the proposed terminal locations and rail routes with the implementation partner, Eighteenth Engineering Company. He assured that feasibility studies, environmental risk assessments, and community consultations were in progress to ensure the project’s successful rollout.
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