Vice President Kashim Shettima, on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, declared that the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation Limited (CCECC) has pledged to complete the Abuja light rail project in May 2024.
Shettima extracted the commitment from the management of CCECC when its chairman, Jason Zhang, paid him a courtesy visit at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
The vice president, according to a statement issued by his spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, said the move was in line with the determination of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to enhance infrastructural development across the country.
He stated that the Abuja light rail project, like others, remains dear to President Tinubu and Nigerians.
Shettima described the company as part of Nigeria’s history, noting that the Chinese construction giant has played a pivotal role in developing Nigeria’s landmark projects.
He added that its commitment to the development of Nigeria and Africa was commendable.
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The vice president said: “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 power and the willingness to support Nigeria and other African countries without interfering in our local politics. This we appreciate a lot.”
Shettima further assured CCECC that the present administration would sustain the existing relationship with it and the people of China.
Speaking, the company’s Managing Director, David Waig, reiterated CCECC’s commitment to delivering the project within the stipulated period.
Waig stated that CCECC would leave no stone unturned in ensuring the delivery of the Abuja light rail line in May 2024.
He, however, called on the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to engage an operational company that would quickly see to smooth take-off of the rail project.
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