The Port Harcourt to Aba rail line is set to commence full operations by the end of March, according to Fidet Okhiria, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC).
Okhiria, who conducted an inspection visit to the facility in Port Harcourt on Saturday, revealed that the China Civil Engineering Construction Company (CCECC), responsible for the project, has given assurances that travelers will be able to journey to and from Aba by train within this timeframe.
During the inspection, Okhiria disclosed plans to connect the Onne Port to the rail network, facilitating the movement of goods to Aba, Umuahia, and Enugu.
He highlighted the significance of the rail link, emphasizing the improved efficiency and accessibility it would provide for both passengers and cargo transportation.
Okhiria expressed optimism about the progress made, stating, “What I can tell Nigerians is that we were able to ride on a train, unlike last time when we went by road to Aba.
We went on a train to Elelewa because we had other things to do.”
He further explained that the physical assessment of the Port Harcourt Port and the route to Onne from Elelewa would inform crucial decisions on the final design, with the aim of obtaining ministerial approval.
The timeline for the project was discussed in a recent meeting, with concerted efforts to ensure that operations commence by the end of March.
This development marks a significant step forward in enhancing rail connectivity in the region, providing a more efficient and sustainable mode of transportation for both passengers and goods.