Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has unveiled plans for major rail corridor electrification across the country over the next five years, beginning with key routes in Lagos and Warri. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to modernise Nigeria’s railway system and transition toward more efficient rail operations. Managing Director Kayode Opeifa said the two cities were selected as the initial locations for the electrification programme because of the availability of gas resources that can support electricity generation required for train operations. The proposed major rail corridor electrification programme aims to replace diesel-powered trains with electric systems. NRC believes this move will enhance operational efficiency while lowering long-term operating costs and aligning the country’s railway network with international standards.
Reflecting on the broader development of Nigeria’s rail network, Opeifa noted that modernisation efforts accelerated in 2015 with the introduction of standard gauge rail lines. He credited the administration of Muhammadu Buhari with delivering major projects such as the Abuja-Kaduna Railway, the Warri-Itakpe Railway, the Abuja Rail Mass Transit, and the Lagos-Ibadan Railway, while also initiating the Port Harcourt-Maiduguri rail corridor. He further highlighted the constitutional amendment that moved railways from the Exclusive Legislative List to the Concurrent List, enabling state governments such as Lagos, Kano, Ogun, and Plateau to participate more actively in railway development.
Nigerian Railway Corporation has also developed a national rail map designed to integrate state rail systems with the national network, strengthening connectivity across the country. Opeifa stressed the role of rail transport in national development, stating, “Railway is an enabler of growth,” while adding that investments in rail infrastructure across key economic hubs are intended to improve mobility, trade, and regional connectivity. He also noted that the NRC is exploring tourism and entertainment opportunities linked to rail travel as it works to expand services and improve passenger experience.
