The Federal Government has inaugurated an inter-agency technical committee to review a proposed $200 billion Integrated Gas, Power and High-Speed Rail Project, signalling a cautious approach to one of the most ambitious infrastructure proposals in Nigeria’s history.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, inaugurated the committee in Abuja and tasked members with conducting a thorough, objective, and professional assessment to guide government decision-making in the national interest.
The committee is expected to evaluate a proposal submitted by De-Sadel (Nig.) Limited, in partnership with China Liancai Petroleum Investment Holdings Limited, for a multi-phase project that combines gas development, power generation and transmission, as well as a 4,000-kilometre high-speed rail network.
Akume said the scale and complexity of the project require rigorous scrutiny, stressing that the government must be satisfied with its technical viability, financial structure, and regulatory compliance before taking any decision.
“I urge you to approach this assignment with the highest level of professionalism, objectivity and patriotism. Your recommendations will guide decisions at the highest level,” he said.
He added that his office had already received inputs from security, financial intelligence, and regulatory agencies, particularly regarding the project’s financing arrangements and the entities involved, highlighting the need for a coordinated review.
The proposed project is designed to connect major economic corridors, including Lagos, Abuja, Kaduna, Kano, and Port Harcourt, through high-speed rail lines, while also strengthening energy supply through integrated gas and power infrastructure.
The committee’s mandate includes verifying proof of funds, assessing financial and sovereign risk exposure, reviewing the financing model, and evaluating the technical capacity of the project promoters and contractors.
It will also examine rail infrastructure plans, local content provisions, regulatory compliance, and potential security or reputational risks, before advising on the project’s readiness for consideration by the Federal Executive Council.
Managing Director of the De-Sadel Consortium, Samuel Ukoh, said the initiative would establish a new infrastructure backbone for the country, featuring a nationwide rail network, gas-based power generation, fibre optic connectivity, and real estate development around major stations.
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