NRC unveils Vision 2-5-10-20 plan to expand rail coverage to 60,000 km, double capacity, and modernize passenger and freight services nationwide….
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has announced ambitious plans to transition its rail network to electric-powered trains over the next five years, as part of a long-term strategy to modernize and expand national rail services.
The announcement was made byKayode Opeifa, NRC Managing Director/CEO, during the Seventh National Transport Conference organized by the Chartered Institute of Transport Administration (CIOTA) at NICON Luxury Hotel, Abuja.
Dubbed Vision 2-5-10-20, the development framework outlines a clear roadmap for transforming Nigeria’s rail system:
- 2 years: Optimize existing national rail assets
- 5 years: Transition major routes to electric traction
- 10 years: Double overall rail capacity
- 20 years: Expand the rail network to at least 60,000 kilometres across the country
“We are committed to leveraging modern technology and sustainable operations to create a connected and efficient rail system that benefits both passengers and industries,” Dr. Opeifa stated.
Currently, the Lagos Blue Line remains Nigeria’s only electric rail service. The 27-kilometre line, part of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit system, saw its first 13-kilometre phase from Marina to Mile 2 begin commercial operations in September 2023, while the 14-kilometre extension to Okokomaiko is under construction and expected to be completed by 2026.
National Railway Development Roadmap
Opeifa revealed that the Federal Government will soon unveil a National Railway Development Roadmap, aimed at connecting all 36 states and the FCT under the government’s Renewed Hope agenda.
The roadmap is expected to enable states to access and use national rail corridors at no additional cost, following legislative amendments that placed railway development on the concurrent legislative list.
Currently, Lagos and Plateau States are leveraging these corridors, while Ogun, Oyo, Edo, Delta, Kogi, Kaduna, Kano, and Niger States are poised to connect to the national network in the near future.
Boosting Freight and Economic Growth
In addition to passenger services, the NRC is expanding freight-by-rail operations, moving goods such as containerized cargo, cement, gypsum, soda ash, metal coils, and materials for the AKK Pipeline Project. This expansion is expected to reduce road congestion and strengthen economic development nationwide.
The NRC’s long-term plan emphasizes the integration of electric-powered trains, modern technology, and sustainable practices to create a rail system that is cleaner, more efficient, and capable of supporting industrial and community growth over the next 20 years.
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