By; MATTHEW UKACHUNWA, Lagos
State governments in Nigeria have been advised to emulate Lagos State Government for the development of subnational railway infrastructure in their areas.
Minister of Transportation, Senator Sa’id Ahmed Alkali who threw the challenge, said that the stride of Lagos State is a shining example of what can be achieved when federal government and subnational governments unite in a shared vision for progress.
Alkali expressed this when Lagos State government commissioned its 37-kilometre Red Line Rail project on Thursday.
I therefore encourage other state governments to emulate this approach, leveraging the strength of collaboration to bring about positive change in their respective jurisdictions,” the transportation minister said.
He promised that the Federal Ministry of Transportation will provide support and expertise to subnational entities that partner with federal government on railway infrastructure development.
Alkali declared: “Now that railway is on the Concurrent Legislative List of our Constitution, the Federal Ministry of Transportation is positioned to lead the way for partnership to facilitate railway infrastructure development for subnational governments and the private sector in the country.”
The minister emphasized how imperative it is to achieve railway connectivity throughout the country from the ports to the hinterlands.
He highlighted that such connectivity will serve as a backbone for the economic recovery of the nation. “Together we can build a future where efficient transportation networks drive economic growth, improve accessibility and enhance the quality of life for all citizens,” Alkali stressed.
