Since 1991 when Abuja officially became the capital of the country, it has grown to be one of the fastest developing cities in Nigeria and Africa. In maintaining this position, the capital continues to face a lot of development and reconstruction project.
In view of how the country’s capital is perceived and Nigeria at large, the Ministry of Aviation, backed by the federal government announced March 8th as the closure of Nnamdi Azikwe International airport, Abuja for reconstruction of the airport’s runway.
The runway was reportedly to have been reconstructed 14 years ago, but no one heeded to its dilapidated state. However, the airline operators and other concerned stakeholders’ resolution on discontinuing operations prompted the federal government to take necessary measure in reconstructing the runway.
First impression,they say, last longer. The international airport which maintains about 812 aircraft and sustains Diplomats, tourists, Nigerians and her government will now divert operations to Kaduna airport. As the recession continues to beat the country’s economy and considering the number of aircraft that will have to suspend operations in the airport for the runway repair, the Country’s capital may inevitably be facing even worse economic challenges during the period.
Accepting that Land transportation between Abuja and Kaduna is the only alternative to get to Kaduna airport and considering the number of passengers that will be taking this route, the cost of transportation might be inflated. So, it is important to know your options before making your travelling decision during this period. Some of the following options might give you a clue and help shape your decision.
TAKE THE TRAIN
Nigeria railway system has been on the fading scene until 2016 when the Abuja – Kaduna railway was commissioned by President Muhammadu Buhari. The Idu station, Abuja to Rigasa station in Kaduna has been facing influx of passengers since the commission of the railway. As the airport will discontinue activities for the six weeks, it is clear that the railway station will be a good alternative to the diversion.
If you are thinking of travelling this period, The Train can be a suitable, safe and comfortable way to commute. The railway corporation currently commutes 1,200 passengers in a day as the train moves Abuja – Kaduna twice daily, it moves from Idu station. The train maintains four coaches with 264 economy at 1,050 and 56 business class at 1500naira . Even though the capacity of the train is low to the number of users that will be taking this route, it still worth to be considered as option.
TAKE A COMMERCIAL BUS RIDE
In making the six weeks a stress free period for road users, the ministry of works confirmed the completion of the 1 billion naira repair on the 160 km Abuja- Kaduna highway. This is in line with government efforts to ensure motorists have an error free road.
Using interstate buses can be another option this period. A lot of transport companies like God Is Good Motors and other recognized bus companies with mass transit buses will be making big differences for the six weeks. Putting up with the figure of road users during this period, transport companies can be an alternative to reduce number of cars on the highway.
SHARE A RIDE
Technology has come to be an undeniable effort to make things work smarter and better. In places like europe, Ride-sharing serves as an effective way for car owners to share their ride with passengers (or other car owners) going the same route at the same time sharing the cost of the trip. With ridesharing, car owners can offset the cost of driving to Kaduna.
For passengers, ride sharing offers a cost lower than the other options listed and, considering the increased number of people that will make trips to Kaduna during the 6-weeks period, ride-sharing can reduce number of cars on the road and traffic congestion.
So could this potentially be an option? Considering how far technology has changed how things work, Nigeria is yet to figure out how to leverage on technology especially in the transport sector. However, all is not lost as private companies like GoMyWay, offering ride sharing for interstate trips might be of great impact during the six weeks airport runway reconstruction.
In spite of all odds and the preparation of the Kaduna state and the Federal Government, the hope is that the period will be stress and casualties free.
By Sherif Olayiwola.
+2349058315083,+2348102620851
WRITER’S BIO:
Sherif Olayiwola is a young creative and freelance writer from Lagos, Nigeria. He is an avid sports fan, lover of African music, political observer and tech enthusiast.
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