The Honourable Minister of Transport, Sa’id Ahmed Alkali last Friday officially launched a freight train service from DIDP to the APM Terminals in Apapa, Lagos. He presided over the inaugural train service at Dala Inland Dry port in Kano. At the occasion to mark commencement of freight train service from DIDP, the minister, expressed the excitement of president Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration on the completion of the renovations work of the old narrow gauge railroad which was long abandoned. He emphasized that the development of a modern, safe, secure, and sustainable transportation network is a priority under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, which recognizes transportation as a gateway to the nation’s economy The minister said the Federal Government’s recent achievements, include ,securing financing for the completion of the Kaduna-Kano Standard Gauge project and the ongoing construction of the Kano-Maradi rail line. He reassured the public that the construction of the Standard Gauge from Lagos to Kano is progressing at an appreciable speed. MD, DIDP Hon Ahmad Rabiu, said the service, which began on May 31, positions Kano as a critical hub for cargo processing and export. “Dala Inland is a 200-hectare project, the first port of destination in the hinterland with dedicated rail services,” Ahmad Rabiu commended the leadership of the Board led by Alh Abubakar Sahabo Bawuro, the management and staff got their commitment in ensuring the port’s full operation, urging them to wait harder. Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, represented by his Deputy Comrade Aminu Abdussalam, welcomed the initiative, stating that it alleviates the transportation nightmares faced by businessmen as road transportation of goods is often hazardous and more expensive. He said the project will not only benefit the northern region, the northeast, and the northwest, but also the neighboring countries Niger, Chad and Cameroon. Various dignitaries from all sections related to the logistics business, regulatory agencies, partners and associates including community leaders also graced the commissioning.