Onuh noted, “Well, I saw a magnificent building from Lagos State. We went through the ticketing section. We also went through the operation room, and they are about 95 percent completed. The train was comfortable. Of course, nothing can be 100 percent, but I believe we need to give rail transport the needed attention and support to see that it works effectively. It’s impressive!”
She further commented on the universal appeal of the rail system: “The issue of transportation is not about who the cap fits. Both the poor and the rich would love to use the train. I would prefer traveling by train rather than by air. If the rail system works, many people will want to use it. We need to ensure the rail sector becomes a huge success.”
In response to the ongoing developments, Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Fidet Okhiria, revealed that barriers are being installed to restrict access to the departure hall to ticket holders only. This installation is expected to be completed within the next two weeks. Okhiria also mentioned that the NRC is awaiting the CCECC’s handover of the operations room in Lagos.
“We know that operations are on hold due to ongoing work related to power supply. Eko Power Distribution (DISCO) is making efforts, but we are also exploring alternative power supplies,” Okhiria said.
Regarding the handover of facilities from the Chinese contractors, Okhiria assured that maintenance preparations are nearly complete. “We have an agreement for them to provide technical service for three years, and they are still fulfilling that commitment. What remains is for the OCC to be handed over to the NRC, after which we can fully commence operations,” he concluded.
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