Chinese Firm to Build Lagos-Jebba Railway

8 November 2009 (Last Updated November 8th, 2009 18:30)

The Nigerian Government has awarded an $81m (N12.3bn) contract to China Civil Engineering and Construction company to build the Lagos-Jebba rail line. The 488km rail line will link the country's southern and northern states. Work includes providing the line with a signal and telecommuni

The Nigerian Government has awarded an $81m (N12.3bn) contract to China Civil Engineering and Construction company to build the Lagos-Jebba rail line.

The 488km rail line will link the country's southern and northern states. Work includes providing the line with a signal and telecommunication system, and is expected to finish in ten months.

The project is expected to the increase train frequency, ease the transportation of goods and services as well as reduce pressure on the country's roads.

The project is part of a revamp plan for all lines on the Nigerian Railway, which is expected to cost nearly $160m (N24bn) in total.