Anietie Udobit, Abuja
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has praised President Bola Tinubu for approving the allocation of $3 billion for the completion of the Eastern Rail Line.
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In his verified Facebook handle, Kalu said the President’s action is a “demonstration that the Renewed Hope Agenda is not just mere rhetorics but tangible actions.”
“I extend my appreciation to His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the recent approval of $3 billion allocation for the completion of the Eastern Rail Line. This project is a game-changer for the South East connecting Aba and Onitsha to key markets in the Northern region that will boost our economy by linking major trade hubs and unlock over ₦50 billion in annual trade.
“This bold step is a clear demonstration that the Renewed Hope Agenda is not just mere rhetorics but tangible actions.”
Kalu said the gesture by the president will be reciprocated at the appropriate time.
“By prioritizing the Eastern corridor, Mr. President has once again shown his love for Ndi Igbo, commitment to inclusive national development and regional connectivity.
At the appropriate time, this gesture will be reciprocated. For now, we express our profound gratitude: thank you, Mr. President.”
It will be recalled that the rail project, flagged off by former President Muhammadu Buhari in March 2021, was to be funded by 85 per cent foreign loan and 15 per cent counterpart contribution of the federal government, with a delivery timeline of two years.