The leadership of the Chartered Institute of Transport Administration of Nigeria (CIOTA), led by its President, Prince Dr Segun Obayendo CTN, paid a courtesy visit to the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr Kayode Opeifa. The meeting focused on strengthening collaboration and advancing Nigeria’s railway sector.
Speaking at the meeting, Dr Obayendo commended Dr Opeifa’s pedigree and expertise, describing him as the right person to lead the NRC. He expressed confidence in his leadership, acknowledging the significant strides the corporation has made under his stewardship.
In response, Dr Opeifa appreciated the recognition and used the opportunity to highlight the dedication of railway workers, whom he described as the unsung heroes of the industry. He emphasised that while there is potential to expand rail infrastructure where possible, the NRC remains committed to its core mandate of rail maintenance, ensuring that existing tracks are well-preserved and operational. According to him, this commitment has enabled the corporation to maintain consistent rail schedules despite challenges.
Dr Opeifa acknowledged some constraints facing the sector, including logistics challenges and infrastructure limitations. However, he noted that the Nigerian government has fostered strong partnerships, particularly with Chinese investors, to drive rail construction and expansion. He called for greater public support, emphasising that the government’s mobility agenda is multimodal, integrating rail with other transport systems to enhance efficiency.
The NRC boss highlighted ongoing efforts to optimise rail freight operations, revealing that cement is now being moved from Ewekoro to Osogbo, while plans are underway to transport goods from Lagos to Ilorin. He described the railway as an emerging choice for cargo movement, with two additional rail lines set to be activated to transport up to 100 containers from Apapa, easing congestion at the ports.
Dr Opeifa also disclosed that the NRC is collaborating with state governments to invest in rail corridors, following the example of the Lagos Red Line, which has seen the development of major stations across the state. He stressed the importance of protecting rail tracks from vandalism and theft, warning that stolen tracks are often sold off illegally.
In conclusion, he appealed to CIOTA to champion private-sector investment in the railway industry, making it a more lucrative and sustainable venture. He further assured that the NRC is upgrading amenities and aesthetics at railway stations to enhance customer experience and attract more patronage.
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