Jonathan Promises To Link Nigeria’s Capital Cities By Rail

President Goodluck Jonathan says all state capitals in Nigeria will be linked with rail transportation, as part of ways to boost the nation’s economy.

The president who was in London last week made this known at the 17th meeting of the Honorary International Investment Council (HIIC).

According to him, once the country can boast of such nationwide rail coverage, roads and highways would be better maintained. “If we do not link state capitals by rail, our roads will not last,” said Jonathan.

He also stressed the need for the country to upgrade its infrastructure, as it will be impossible to mould the economy of the country without good infrastructure.

“Quite a number of companies construct roads to their sites. This is not supposed to be so. We are committed to addressing this, we have been working hard and we have improved our road networks significantly,” Jonathan said.

The President also informed the HIIC members of his administration’s commitment to securing the nation’s air space and improving the quality of airport terminal buildings.

Jonathan also assured the council of the government’s determination to put an end to the country’s security challenges.

“We are improving in the area of security, for about a week now, no new story of Boko Haram holding territories.

“Instead, we are reducing them by the day, before now, many local government areas in Borno State were taken by Boko Haram, but now it has reduced,” he boasted.

HIIC Coordinator, Baroness Lynda Chalker, said the council had focused on various sectors of the economy since inception. “But this 17th meeting will focus on rail transportation given its critical role to the economy.”

The HIIC is made up of prominent investors around the world, who advise governments on economic development.

The council partners with Nigeria in reducing corruption, attracting foreign direct investment and promoting private sector-driven economy.

Source: informationng