The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has commenced a comprehensive review and repositioning of its national rail services.
NRC Managing Director, Kayode Opeifa who dropped the hint at a world press briefing in Abuja disclosed that the Corporation is working to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of its rail services, including the Abuja-Kaduna, Lagos-Ibadan, Warri-Itakpe, and Port Harcourt-Aba train services.
The NRC boss explained that the Corporation is also working towards the full reactivation of the Lagos-Kano-Baro Narrow gauge line to increase freight and cargo movement, and make rail infrastructure available to states to promote mass transit programs.
“We are committed to revitalizing the rail sector and improving our services to meet the needs of Nigerians,” Opeifa said. “Our initiatives include repairing and refurbishing abandoned locomotives and coaches, collaborating with states to develop rail infrastructure, and implementing our ‘Freight Revolution by Rail’ program to deepen trade and reduce transportation costs.”
The “Freight Revolution by Rail” program aims to increase trade between Northern and Southern Nigeria, reduce transportation costs, and alleviate pressure on roads. Additionally, the NRC is introducing a Track Access Programme/Policy to encourage public sector participation in rail operations.
Opeifa apologized to the Nigerian media for verbally assaulting an NTA journalist, Ladi Bala, while she was covering a train derailment incident. He emphasized the Corporation’s commitment to working with stakeholders to achieve its goals.
Opeifa highlighted the Corporation’s plans to work with the Federal Ministry of Transportation to launch the new NRC and the reformed National Rail System, as well as develop a new National Strategic Rail Development Plan.
The NRC’s initiatives are expected to improve the overall rail experience for passengers, increase the use of rail transportation for freight and cargo movement, and contribute to the country’s economic growth and development.
