The China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation Ltd. (CCECC) has promised to finish the Abuja light rail project in May 2024, Vice President Kashim Shettima announced on Wednesday.
Shettima reportedly extracted the pledge from the CCECC management, according to Mr. Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President.
The vice president received a visit from the company’s management, which was led by its chairman, Mr. Jason Zhang, at the presidential villa.
Shettima claimed that the action was consistent with President Tinubu’s administration’s resolve to accelerate the development of the nation’s infrastructure.
According to the vice president, President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian people continue to be passionate about the Abuja rail project and other such initiatives.
Shettima regarded the enterprise as an integral part of Nigeria’s history and pointed out that the Chinese construction behemoth was crucial in the creation of some of Nigeria’s most significant projects.
Its dedication to the advancement of Nigeria and Africa, he continued, was admirable.
“You have lived in this country for 42 years. We must thank you for all of your wonderful efforts and support over the years.
“Just as you have stuck by us through thick and thin, we have a lot in common with the Chinese people.
“You have the resources and the will to assist Nigeria and other African nations without meddling in our domestic politics. We are very grateful for this.
Shettima gave the CCECC assurance that the current administration would retain the current connection with them and the Chinese people.
Earlier, David Waig, the company’s managing director, reaffirmed CCECC’s commitment to completing the project by the deadline.
According to Waig, CCECC would stop at nothing to ensure that the Abuja light rail line is completed by May 2024.
He urged the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to hire a business that could immediately ensure a smooth start to the train project.
The meeting also included Mr. Eric Yu, the company’s General Manager (Business), Mr. Jaques Liao, and Mr. Inain Guo, the company’s Deputy Managing Directors.
