Nigeria’s Minister, Senator Alkali, Takes Kubwa Train Station by Suprise. Laments lack of accessibility for PWDs and elderly passengers.
Oru Leonard
In a surprise move, Senator Said Alkali, the Honourable Minister of Transportation in Nigeria, conducted an unscheduled inspection of the Kubwa Train Station in Abuja on August 26, 2024. The visit was prompted by reports of vandalism of the main power supply from the national grid, which had left the station without electricity.
Upon arrival, the Minister expressed disappointment with the lack of accessibility for physically challenged and elderly passengers. He noted that the station’s design failed to consider their needs, with no escalators or easy access points.
The Minister also inspected other facilities, including the communication rooms, luggage security scanners, and convenience areas. He found that some equipment was not functioning, and the car park was poorly maintained with floodwaters and potholes.
Senator Alkali emphasized the need for urgent attention to these issues, ensuring that passengers’ security and welfare are not compromised. He instructed the Director, Rail Services, to take note of the shortcomings and work with the Nigeria Railway Corporation and contractors to address them.
The Minister’s inspection highlights his commitment to improving the country’s transportation infrastructure and ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all passengers.
