The Federal Government is to construct rail line to Niger Republic, Vice President Namadi Sambo has said.

Sambo said this during a reception organised by the Zazzau Emirate in honour of Gov. Muktar Yero of Kaduna State at the Emir's palace in Zaria on Saturday.

"I am glad to inform you that rehabilitation of the rail line from Zaria to Kauran Namoda has commenced.

"I am equally happy to state that rail services from Kano to Lagos are in progress.

"The survey on the new rail line from Kauran Namoda to Sokoto to Birnin Kebbi has begun. We hope to link the rail line to Niamey in Niger Republic.

"In the same vein, the standard-gauge rail system from Abuja to Kaduna has already reached 60 per cent completion.

"It will be extended to Lokoja and to Warri Port. By the grace of God, the new standard-gauge rail system will commence operation by next year, " he said.

He said the water scarcity in Zaria would soon be over, as the entire city would be provided with portable water.

The vice president assured the people of the readiness of the federal government to partner with the Kaduna State government to ensure rapid development.

In his speech, Yero appealed to the people to pray for peace to reign in Kaduna State.

"Peace is extremely vital in our homes, families, society, state and the nation at large.

"We must do everything possible to ensure that peace reigns in the state, because when Kaduna state is peaceful, certainly Northern Nigeria and Nigeria at large will remain peaceful.

He commended the Zazzau emirate for the honour and promised to do his best to transform the state.

The Emir of Zazzau, Alhaji Shehu Idris, said the reception was organised to glorify God Almighty and encourage the governor to do more for the people.

Posted on : 30 Nov,-0001