The decision by the Federal Government to extend its railway line project from Kano to Maradi in Niger Republic has continued to generate mixed reactions among many residents of Kano.
The project which is expected to cost Nigeria a whopping $1.9 billion has gotten many questioning the rationale at a time when some states in the country are not connected by the rail, with many roads in bad shape.
A few others, however, see it as a welcome development that will further boost the economy of the State as a commercial hub.
According to the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, the 248 kilometers railway lines will connect 3 States in the North; namely Kano, Jigawa, and Katsina, before crossing over to Maradi in Niger Republic.
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What has however, generated heated arguments among many, is the plan to extend the railway lines to Maradi.
The residents say the resources to be expended on the railway to Maradi should have been used to fix major roads in the country that will be of more economic value to the country.
Some of the residents commend the Federal Government for the project and hope it will not be abandoned.
The Federal Government recently, signed a Memorandum of Understanding, with the contracting firm, signaling the take-off of the project.
( Editor: Omor Bazuaye)
