The Managing Director of China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation Ltd (CCECC), David Waig, has assured the Federal Government that the Abuja light rail project will be completed in eight months.
The Senior Special Assistant to the Vice-President on Media and Communications, Stanley Nkwocha, said in a statement obtained by Persecondnews in Abuja that Waig gave the promise to Vice-President Kashim Shettima during a visit.
Shettima, who recalled that the company had been in the country for nearly 42 years, commended it for its steadfastness in supporting Nigeria and other countries without “interfering in local politics.
“You have been in this country for 42 years. We have to commend you for all the beautiful initiatives and support over the years.
“We share a lot in common with the people of China, just as you have been with us through thick and thin.
“You have the financial firepower and the willingness to support Nigeria and other African countries without interfering in our local politics. This we appreciate a lot,” Shettima said.
Earlier, Waig, reiterated the company’s commitment towards delivering the project within the stipulated period, saying CCECC would go above board and leave no stone unturned in ensuring the delivery of the Abuja light rail line come May 2024
The rail line which was intended to be the first of a half-dozen in a 290-kilometre network that would connect the city to the satellite towns where many workers live.
Meanwhile, the Federal Government says it spends $50 million yearly paying down the project’s $500 million in loans from the Export-Import Bank of China.
The project which was intended to be the first of its kind in West Africa, is now a debt burden to taxpayers.
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