The Delta State Government has assigned its Economic Team the task of evaluating an investment proposal to develop a rail transportation system throughout the state.
The proposal was presented by Mr. Duke Jerome-Scott, Managing Director and CEO of Jezreel Engineering Services Limited, during a meeting with Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme at the Government House in Asaba on Tuesday.
The disclosure, reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), revealed that Jerome-Scott outlined proposed rail routes, including Osubi-Effurun-Agbarho-Ughelli-Patani and Agbor-Umunede-Ogwashi-Uku-Asaba-Bridge Head, with a connection to the federal rail line from Ujevwu to Itakpe.
The project, he emphasized, aims to drive economic growth, create jobs, increase revenue, and provide vital services to local communities.
“Delta Government on Tuesday said the State Economic Team will study an investment proposal for building a rail transportation system in the state,” the NAN report read in part.
The report noted that the Delta State Deputy Governor acknowledged the significant challenges of constructing a rail system, highlighting its capital-intensive nature and the federal government’s struggles with completing rail projects nationwide.
Onyeme expressed concerns about the proposed Sukuk financing model, noting that while it offers long-term funding, it often results in delayed project completion. He cited the Benin-Auchi dual carriage road, which has been under construction for years despite Sukuk funding.
The Deputy Governor urged the exploration of alternative financing options to ensure the project’s timely implementation.
