The Federal government has made clarifications regarding its approval of the extension of rail construction from Lagos-Kano-Katsina to Marradi in Niger Republic.
The clarification became necessary after Nigerians expressed concern over the country’s utilization of borrowed money to fund the infrastructure of a neighbouring country.
Speaking on Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) live programme, “Good Morning Nigeria,” the minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed explained that the rail extension to Niger Republic is for economic and commercial benefits.
According to him, the extension will enable Nigerians take economic advantages of import and exports to & fro the landlocked countries of Niger, Chad and Burkina Faso.
“Niger, Burkina Faso and Chad are all landlocked meaning that they do not have access to the sea.
“Therefore, most of their imports and exports have to go through neighbouring countries’ seaports like Cotonou in Benin Republic, Togo and Ghana
“Since Nigeria doesn’t have a road infrastructure that will encourage Niger Republic to use our seaports, the rail linkage will be enticing for them to utilize.
Mr Mohammed therefore urged critics of government policies and decisions to always seek clarifications.
He also noted that the government would not relent in enlightening the public on its programmes, policies and decisions.
