Tuesday, October 31, 2006
The Rail Project : Issues Arising
Nigeria yesterday signed an $8 billion contract with CCECC, a Chinese firm to " design, construct and maintain " a new rail system in the country.I have some questions though.Is this not the same company that was contracted to do the same job(maybe under the name "revitalise") under Abacha( ???Abdulsalami???).Was this company contracted because their country granted Nigeria a $2.5 billion loan most of which will go into the rail project anyway?. Is this not going to be another white elephant project? Why did the current administration wait this long (till its about leaving power) to embark on such a huge project..just like the National Integrated Power Project! I hope this is not just another avenue to siphon money out of the nation's purse, especially now that the elections are drawing nearer and funds are needed to prosecute a successful campaign.Honestly, i look forward to a realisation of the ideals of the project...because now that airplanes are dropping out of the sky like pigeon poops, there is a real chance that a fast and efficient rail system can be a refreshing alternative to air travel.Forgive my pessimism if you feel am a pessimist.Am not.Am a realist!
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4 comments:
I await like the THINKING MAN... I await...
Your pessimism is amazing. I read about the trade contract today on the news and was actually looking forward to good things happening in Africa for a change.
The question is will the contract be equal sided and favour the Nigerian economy as well as the Chinese government? As long as the Nigerians involved in the project are honest with themselves, there is a good chance of better things to come. Too optimistic am I? (smile) Lets wait and see?
Do u have a choice?
It pays to attack from the rear i.e the pessimist point of view.That way you wont be disappointed everytime.Forgive me.I am waiting!
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