The Borno Government has unveiled plans to construct an intra-city rail network that will feature 12 designated terminals connecting major markets, schools, and public spaces, as well as economically significant locations in the state capital.
The plan for the rail project, which, if actualised, will be the first in northern Nigeria was unveiled by Alhaji Mohammed Bamanga, Borno Commissioner for Transport and Energy on Sunday.
According to him, the first phase of the rail network is designed to complement other ongoing infrastructure projects, including the expansion of Maiduguri’s 113km East, West, and South ring roads that connect key communities like Auno, Molai, Polo, and Shagari low-cost housing estates.
Bamanga said that the rail project forms part of Gov. Babagana Zulum’s broader urban renewal strategy.
The commissioner said the landmark project is designed to improve transportation, boost economic activities, and foster sustainable urban development.
According to him, the initiative marks the first of its kind by any of the 19 northern states, with potential expansion plans to cover additional local government areas in the future.
While inspecting the proposed rail terminals and routes alongside the project’s implementation partner, Eighteenth Engineering Company (EEC), the Commissioner said that feasibility studies, environmental risk assessments, and community consultations were underway.
“These steps are intended to ensure the project is implemented successfully with minimal disruption to the environment and local communities.
“The rail project will transform the city’s transportation network by easing movement, revitalizing the economy, creating jobs, and opening up economic corridors.
“It will also serve as a cost-effective and energy efficient alternative for the people of Maiduguri,” Bamanga stated.
He said that the state has also introduced electric and gas-powered buses and taxis, offered at subsidized rates to cushion the impact of the recent fuel subsidy removal on residents.
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