The Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Fidet Okhiria, has assured that the Port Harcourt to Aba rail line would commence full operation before the end of March, 2024.
Okhiria gave the assurance, yesterday, in Port Harcourt, while inspecting the project to ascertain the progress of work so far. Speaking to newsmen, the NRC boss, noted that by the end of the month, passengers would be able to use the train services from Port Harcourt to Aba, emphasising that they should expect an increase in the fare.
Okhiria, who was not too impressed with the pace of work, blamed the delay on paucity of funds. He said the tracks were not yet balanced but assured that work was ongoing. and before the month ran out every segment would be fixed to beat the deadline.
He said: “I think they are doing their best. But the best is not good enough. I would say that I am not quite pleased. I can say also that it is not their fault the resources are scarce. We will be able to carry people from Port Harcourt to Aba by the end of the month.”
He also noted that the corporation is working to revitalise the railroad to Port Harcourt Port and is creating a design for the construction of a new rail line to Onne Port.
