The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has unveiled a reform initiative designed to revamp the country’s railway sector over the next five years, with a broader goal of aligning it with global standards within this generation.
During a meeting with the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) in Lagos on Tuesday, NRC’s Managing Director, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, emphasized the administration’s dedication to revitalizing rail infrastructure as part of its Renewed Hope Agenda.
Opeifa highlighted the government’s commitment to implementing a comprehensive railway master plan, scheduled for release in April. This blueprint aims to guide the development of a world-class rail network across the country.
“In the next five years, significant progress will be made in the rail sector, enabling Nigerians to experience a modern railway system. Within this generation, we aspire to operate advanced rail networks that meet international benchmarks,” he stated.
Despite past challenges, Opeifa acknowledged the slow expansion of railway infrastructure, noting that while 3,500 kilometers of tracks were constructed in six decades, subsequent growth stagnated for another sixty years. He assured that the current administration intends to reverse this trend through targeted investments and swift implementation.
He praised Lagos State for its advancements in railway infrastructure, particularly the successful operation of the electric-powered Blue Line, which has been in service for two years. According to him, this project serves as a model for large-scale rail transformation in Nigeria, encouraging other states to follow suit.
Opeifa also disclosed that the NRC would prioritize freight transportation while working with state governments to establish intra-city rail services. The long-term objective is for all states to have fully operational rail systems that run continuously, reducing road congestion, enhancing economic activity, and improving overall transportation efficiency.
The proposed N49.74 trillion national budget for 2025 initially allocated N41.49 billion to railway projects managed by the NRC. This funding covers the completion of key rail corridors, including Abuja-Kaduna and Lagos-Ibadan, the rehabilitation of the Itakpe-Ajaokuta line, construction of new station buildings, acquisition of rolling stock, and track-laying efforts in Agbor.
Additionally, the budget includes resources for security enhancements, such as an acoustic surveillance system for the Abuja-Kaduna corridor, and feasibility studies for new standard gauge lines. Furthermore, N146.14 billion in counterpart funding was earmarked for the Lagos Green Line Metro Rail Project, a 68-kilometer network linking the Lekki Free Zone to Marina.
Following the approval of an increased N54.99 trillion budget, adjustments to these allocations are anticipated, though specific details regarding the revised funding breakdown have yet to be disclosed.
