FG Unveils Major Rail, Data, Terminal Projects to Reshape Nigeria’s Transport Sector

The Federal Government has unveiled a series of major projects to revolutionize Nigeria's transport sector, with a focus on reducing reliance on road transport. During the opening of the 19th National Council on Transportation, Permanent Secretary Olufunso Adebiyi shared updates on rail, water, and air initiatives that aim to build a more integrated transportation system.

Rail expansion, described by Adebiyi as the rebirth of the sector, includes the completion of the Kaduna-Zaria-Kano line, which should open by December, and the progress on the Kaduna-Daura-Katsina line and Katsina-Jibia-Maradi link. The Kano-Dutse line is also under construction. Beyond passenger transport, the government plans to increase rail freight to alleviate pressure on highways.

A notable example cited includes a train moving 33 forty-foot containers from the port to Ibadan Dry Port, effectively taking 33 trailers off the Lagos-Ibadan road.

Smart technology is being integrated into the transportation system through the Smart National Transport Data Bank, which will serve as a central database for drivers, vehicles, number plates, and operators nationwide. This system will introduce standardized manifests at motor parks to record vehicle, driver, passenger, and destination details, enabling authorities to quickly identify individuals involved in accidents and track traffic violations.

Six standardized bus terminals have been approved as pilot projects, featuring uniform standards such as waiting areas, passenger information systems, police posts, vehicle inspection bays, mechanic workshops, restaurants, and restrooms. Operators must meet safety and regulatory requirements, and those violating these standards will face penalties.

A high-speed rail line from Lagos to Maiduguri with trains capable of reaching 360km/h is also in the works, providing passengers with more options between road, rail, air, and water transport.

Maritime investments aim to enhance cargo handling, reduce congestion, and lower costs at ports. Currently, about 9,000 youths are engaged in two major projects, with approximately 4,000 working on one project and 5,000 on the other. Additionally, the Federal University of Transportation has been established to build specialized manpower for the sector.

The administration's long-term goal is to ensure seamless movement across road, rail, air, and water for both people and cargo, with the aim of reducing logistics costs, improving safety, minimizing environmental impact, and boosting productivity. During the council, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation Abel Enitan emphasized the importance of infrastructure, strong institutions, regulation, data, innovation, and skilled workers.