The Ministry of Transportation said construction of the Abuja-Kano and Port-Harcourt-Maiduguri rail projects was being delayed by the federal government’s delay in securing the 85 per cent foreign loan meant for the project.

The Minister of Transportation, Mua’zu Sambo, said this while addressing reporters on Friday in Abuja.

Chinese financiers are expected to provide 85 per cent loan meant for the rail project.

Mr Sambo said the projects which are on-going, are being run through appropriation funds.

He said: “The Abuja-Kano and Port-Harcourt Maiduguri rail projects are on-going but there is a challenge of the 85 per cent foreign loan yet to be secured.

“We have been driving these two projects solely through appropriation, which is part of the 15 per cent which Nigeria is supposed to contribute.

“Indeed I can tell you for sure that with respect to the Kaduna-Kano rail we have paid completely to the contractor the 15 per cent obligation of the Federal Government.

“Until we have the 85 per cent component, the project will have to be continually funded through the appropriation.’’

On the Transportation University in Daura, Mr Sambo said some administrative challenges were responsible for the proposed take-off of the institution in September.

He said measures were, however, in place to resolve these challenges and commence operation of the school.

The minister said:“The Transportation University in Daura ought to have commenced in September but there are certain challenges being encountered.

“Some of the challenges are administrative and efforts are being made to clear them with the National University Commission and the Federal Ministry of Education.”

(NAN)