$3bn South-East Railway Project Not Diverted – Ministry

The Federal Ministry of Transportation has dismissed allegations that the $3 billion South-East railway project has been diverted, assuring the public that the funds remain intact and the project is progressing as planned. The ministry’s clarification follows growing concerns over the status of the railway initiative, which is expected to boost economic activities and improve transportation in the region.

According to ministry officials, the project, which is part of Nigeria’s broader railway modernization program, is still on track, with feasibility studies, funding arrangements, and preliminary works ongoing. The government emphasized that delays in execution should not be mistaken for mismanagement or fund diversion, as infrastructure projects of this scale require careful planning, regulatory approvals, and coordination with funding partners.

The South-East railway project, which aims to connect key commercial hubs in the region, is expected to enhance mobility, facilitate trade, and attract investments. The government reiterated its commitment to ensuring that all allocated funds are used strictly for the purpose of executing the project, with transparent monitoring mechanisms in place.

Concerns over the status of the railway project had emerged after reports suggested that the funds might have been redirected to other regions or unrelated initiatives. However, the transportation ministry has assured stakeholders that there has been no misallocation of resources, and all contractual obligations will be honored in line with the government’s infrastructural development agenda.

Despite these assurances, some analysts and stakeholders have urged the government to provide more detailed updates on the project’s timeline, budget utilization, and expected completion date. Many believe that improved communication and public engagement will help build trust and dispel doubts about the execution of critical infrastructure projects.

As work on the railway continues, the government has called for patience and support from Nigerians, stressing that the project remains a priority and will be delivered as planned to enhance connectivity and economic growth in the South-East region.