This article breaks down the drama, sets the record straight, and gives you the real deal on the proposed Lagos-Abuja bullet train project. Get ready to separate fact from fiction!
Here’s what we’ll cover:
- The FG’s official denial of the bullet train story.
- Why Geofocus Consortium’s claims are being called out.
- The actual status of the Lagos-Abuja bullet train proposal.
- What the Ministry of Transportation is really working on.
FG Slams Brakes on Bullet Train Rumors
The Federal Ministry of Transportation is not playing games when it comes to accurate information. They’ve officially debunked the viral story about the imminent launch of a Lagos-Abuja High-Speed Bullet Train. According to the ministry, the report, which claimed travel time would be slashed from 12 hours to a mere two or three, is completely false and without basis.
Geofocus Consortium: Dreamers or Deceivers?
So, who’s behind the fake news? The ministry is pointing fingers at Geofocus Consortium, specifically their Director of Operations, Yinka Idris. The ministry claims that Idris’s statement to journalists was, well, not exactly rooted in reality.
The Backstory: Geofocus Consortium pitched the bullet train idea back in 2016, proposing a Public Private Partnership (PPP) model with them handling 100% of the financing. Fast forward to 2024, their outline Business Case (OBC) was sent to the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) for review.
ICRC’s Red Flags: Show Me the Money!
The ICRC, doing their due diligence, asked Geofocus Consortium for proof of funds from their financiers. And here’s where the story hits a snag – they haven’t delivered. The ministry emphasizes that the ICRC hasn’t given the green light because this crucial requirement is unmet.
The Bottom Line: Until Geofocus Consortium provides that proof of funds, any talk of completed feasibility studies or secured funding is pure fantasy. The ministry needs to send a memo to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for approval, but that’s not happening until the money is shown!
Ministry Demands Apology, Warns Against Fake News
The Ministry of Transportation is not amused. They’re demanding that Geofocus Consortium apologize for spreading misinformation and misleading the public. They’re also urging Nigerians to be wary of fake news and to verify information before believing everything they read online.
A Word to the Media: Check Your Facts!
The ministry also had a message for news outlets that ran with the story. They’re advising them to seek clarification on sensitive issues before publishing, to avoid spreading false information. Accuracy matters!
What’s the Ministry Really Working On?
So, if it’s not a bullet train, what is the Ministry of Transportation up to? Under the leadership of Senator Said Ahmed Alkali, they’re focused on fulfilling their mandate and contributing to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda for the transportation sector.
Real Talk: The ministry is committed to improving transportation infrastructure and services, but it’s essential to get your information from reliable sources.
Stay Informed!
Don’t let fake news derail your expectations. Stick with trusted sources for accurate updates on transportation projects in Nigeria. The Lagos-Abuja bullet train might be a dream for now, but the Ministry of Transportation is working on other ways to improve travel and connectivity.
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