President Bola Tinubu has announced that the Abuja Rail Mass Transit system, also known as the Metro Line, will offer free rides to commuters until the end of 2024.
The President made declaration on Wednesday in Abuja during the official launch of the Abuja light rail project, as part of activities to mark his first year in office.
Tinubu commended the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, for delivering the project on time, referring to the Minister as “Mr Project.”
“Our dear landlord and his team had initially proposed two months of free rides,” Tinubu stated.
“However, I appeal to extend this until the end of the year, providing the people with hope and reason to celebrate.”
The president emphasised that the Abuja light rail project exemplifies his administration’s commitment to delivering on promises, particularly in the areas of social services and public utilities.
Wike had previously announced on May 23 that the facility would offer a two-month free ride to Nigerians.
The rail system, developed in six phases, was funded through loans from the China EXIM Bank.
Although it was initially commissioned by former President Muhammadu Buhari on July 12, 2018, operations were halted due to vandalism.