The Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Ahmed Alkali has announced that Nigeria has received $1.3 billion in financing to finish a railway line linking Kano, the northern region’s biggest city, with Maradi in Niger.
Senator Said Ahmed Alkali, Minister of Transportation, confirmed this in Abuja on Tuesday, noting that the China Civil Engineering Construction Company (CCECC) will pay 85% of the project, with the Africa Development Bank (AfDB) covering the remaining 15%.
This follows President Bola Tinubu’s recent decree to reopen both the land and air borders connecting Nigeria to the francophone country, Niger.
The statement made available by Special Assistant (Public Affairs) to the Minister, Jamilu Ja’afaru said: “The securing of $1.3 billion signifies a monumental step forward in the completion of this critical infrastructure.
“It’s EPC+F Model. Engineering, Procurement, Construction and Financing (EPC- F contract). This rail link, a key component of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, is set to enhance regional trade, community development, and cultural exchange, aligning with the administration’s unwavering commitment to national development and a more interconnected African continent.
“The Kano-Katsina-Jibiya-Maradi rail line is a testament to our shared history and ambition for economic advancement. It will create a lasting legacy of wealth and opportunities for Nigeria and the Niger Republic.
“As the project advances, the Nigerian Government remains dedicated to realising a vision of progress and unity. The Ministry of Transportation will continue to provide updates on this transformative venture, marking each achievement as we journey towards a brighter and more connected future.”