Infrastructure: CCECC to deliver Abuja Light Rail project for commuters in 8 months –Presidency

*Vice-President (Sen.) Kashim Shettima states China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation’s assurance to deliver the light rail project by May 2024 is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration’s determination to enhance infrastructure development across Nigeria

Alexander Davis | ConsumerConnect

The Federal Government has said that China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation Limited (CCECC), a Chinese construction company, committed to completion of the Abuja Light Rail Project by May 2024.

Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the President on Media and Communications (Office of the Vice President), stated this Wednesday, September 20, 2023.

The statement noted Vice- President Kashim Shettima noted that the firm’s assurance was in line with the determination of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to enhance infrastructure development across the West African country.

The Presidential aide said: “The Vice-President, Sen. Kashim Shettima, extracted this commitment from the management of CCECC when its Chairman, Mr. Jason Zhang, led some members of his management team on a courtesy call at the Presidential Villa today.

“Vice-President Shettima described CCECC as part of Nigeria’s history, saying the Chinese construction giant has played a pivotal role in developing Nigeria’s landmark projects.”

The Vice-President also applauded China’s commitment to Nigeria’s infrastructure development.

The Presidency stated: “Their commitment to the development of Nigeria and Africa is commendable.”

According to Shettima, the Chinese construction giant has played a pivotal role in developing Nigeria’s landmark projects.

“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 fire power and the willingness to support Nigeria and other African countries without interfering in our local politics. This we appreciate a lot,” said the Vice President.

He assured CCECC that the present administration will sustain the existing relationship with the company and the people of China.

The Federal Government further intoned that the Abuja rail project, like others, remains dear to President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian people.

Speaking during the visit, David Waig, Managing Director of CCECC,  reiterated the company’s commitment to delivering the project within the stipulated period.

Waig also stated the CCECC would go above board and leave no stone unturned in ensuring the delivery of the Abuja Light Rail line May 2024.

The Managing Director of CCECC urged the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to engage an operational company that will quickly see to smooth take off of the rail project, the government stated.

Present at the meeting were the Deputy Managing Directors of the company, Mr Jaques Liao and Mr Inain Guo. Mr Eric Yu, the General Manager (Business) of the company was also in attendance.