Minister Confirm Abuja Rail Transit Project Is 5% Away From Completion

Published

2 years ago

March 7, 2024

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Minister Confirm Abuja Rail Transit Project Is 5% Away From Completion—-The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike says the Abuja Rail Mass Transit (ARMT) project is 95 per cent completed and will be ready for inauguration in May.

Wike stated this when the Belgium Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Pieter Leenknegt, visited him in Abuja on Wednesday.

The minister explained that the feat was part of efforts to improve public transportation in the federal capital, Abuja.

“When we came on board, we found out that the Abuja Light Rail was not functional and we felt that it will be a good thing for the people, if we decongest the city by putting it to function.

“So, President Bola Tinubu directed that whatever can be done, should be done, so that in his one year in office, the light rail will come on board for the use of the residents.

“The people can use it going out of the city, going to the airport and other area councils, and instead of going with their vehicles they can take the train.

“I can announce to you that we are almost there. The company handling the project, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), is almost 95 per cent completed.

“By the grace of God, we believe that in May, Mr President will inaugurate it,” the minister said.

Wike added that discussion was on-going with private investors to change the mode of public transportation in the FCT.

He acknowledged that the deficit in public transportation constituted a security challenge in the city, adding that most of the operators were not registered.

He expressed concern that most residents did not know the vehicle they were boarding, adding that efforts were on-going to ensure all public transport operators were registered.

The minister added that the government had concluded plans to build taxi and bus terminals where residents could patronise registered and identified operators.

He further said that the construction of the terminals would commence in the next one month, with the approval of the Bureau of Public Procurement.

The minister also said that discussion was on-going with the Inspector General of Police, the Director-General, Department of State Services, and cattle herders on ways to stop open grazing in the city.

He explained that the discussion was to get the herders to understand why they should not rear cattle within the city.

“I can tell you that it is not what we want, but believing that the matter will be resolved and alternative will be provided for the herders to rear their cattle,” he said.

Wike also sought partnership with the Belgian government on security and agriculture.

Earlier, the Ambassador said that the visit was to get to know the minister’s plans in mass public transportation, update on the Abuja Light Rail project and the stand on open grazing in the city.

Leenknegt expressed satisfaction with developments in the FCT, particularly the green vegetation and trees as well as less traffic.

He said that the Belgian government was open for partnership on areas of mutual benefits.

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Chelsea Explore Surprise Move for Brighton Veteran Danny Welbeck

Published

7 hours ago

July 27, 2026

thecloudngr

Chelsea Explore Surprise Move for Brighton Veteran Danny Welbeck—-The Blues are considering a surprise move for Brighton & Hove Albion veteran Danny Welbeck, with Xabi Alonso keen to add leadership and Premier League experience to his youthful squad.

Chelsea are exploring a shock move for Brighton & Hove Albion striker Danny Welbeck as manager Xabi Alonso looks to add experience and leadership to his attacking options ahead of the new Premier League season. The interest is at an exploratory stage, with Chelsea assessing the conditions of a potential deal for the 35-year-old England international.

Welbeck has just one year remaining on his contract at Brighton after triggering a one-year extension earlier this year. The former Manchester United and Arsenal forward enjoyed one of the most productive campaigns of his career last season, scoring 13 Premier League goals and finishing among the highest-scoring English strikers in the division. His consistent performances reignited calls for an England recall and have now attracted interest from Stamford Bridge.

Despite Chelsea’s heavy investment in young attacking talent in recent transfer windows, Alonso is understood to believe the squad would benefit from the presence of an experienced forward capable of mentoring younger players while contributing on the pitch. The Spaniard reportedly views Welbeck’s professionalism, versatility and leadership as valuable qualities that could complement Chelsea’s youthful core.

Chelsea have already strengthened their squad significantly this summer but remain active in the market as they seek the right balance between youth and experience. Reports suggest the club could also sanction departures in attack before the transfer window closes, with Welbeck emerging as an unexpected but serious option to bolster the frontline.

Brighton are aware of Chelsea’s interest but have yet to receive a formal offer. The Seagulls value Welbeck highly for both his goals and influence in the dressing room, meaning any negotiations are expected to depend on Chelsea presenting an attractive proposal. With only 12 months left on his contract, however, Brighton could consider a sale if the right bid arrives.

While discussions remain in the early stages, Chelsea’s interest signals a possible shift in transfer strategy under Alonso, who appears determined to blend elite young talent with proven Premier League experience as the Blues aim to challenge for major honours in the 2026–27 campaign.

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Watch Moment Shettima, Olowu Reunite At Buratai’s Daughter Wedding [VIDEO]

Published

1 day ago

July 26, 2026

thecloudngr

Watch Moment Shettima, Olowu Reunite At Buratai’s Daughter Wedding [VIDEO]

” I want to recognise and appreciate all our royal fathers present here, but I wish to single out my friend, His Royal Majesty Olowu of Kuta Kingdom, Oba Adekunle Makama Oyelude, Tegbosun iii.

He has been my friend for over thirty years ago in my domain here.

I wonder how he navigated his way back to Osun and become a Chief”, above were the words of Vice President Kashim Shettima upon sighting Kabiyesi at the wedding fathiha of the daughter of former chief of army staff, Lt Gen TY Buratai rtd @ Snake Farm, Keffi, Nasarawa State at the weekend

Watch the moment below:

https://www.thegeniusmedia.com.ng/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/WhatsApp-Video-2026-07-26-at-10.45.46.mp4?_=1