President Bola Tinubu announced on Wednesday that free train rides on the Abuja Metro Line will be available to Nigerians and other commuters until the end of the year.
The President made this announcement during the re-launch of commercial operations on the Abuja Light Rail. He expressed his desire for the free train rides to continue until the end of the year, stating that it would give people a reason to celebrate.
President Tinubu described the operations on the Abuja Metro Line as a significant milestone for the country and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). He praised the completion of access roads to the train stations and emphasized the importance of transportation in providing hope and access to individuals and organizations.
The President also commended the Minister of the FCT for delivering on the promise of the metro line. The Minister explained how the President’s directive in September 2023 spurred the FCT administration into action, leading to the completion of the project within nine months.
He also revealed that the Central Bank of Nigeria facilitated the payment of the contract sum to the contractors. The Minister highlighted the successful operationalization of the metro line as evidence of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The FCT Mandate Secretary for Transportation provided an overview of the project, stating that the Abuja Metro Line has 12 trains with a capacity of carrying at least 700 passengers each.
The Vice President, Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chief Justice of Nigeria, members of the Federal Executive Council, and other dignitaries accompanied the President on the train ride.
