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

The Nigerian government has unveiled major projects in rail, data, and terminal development to transform the country's transport sector, according to Engr. Olufunso Adebiyi, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Transportation. The initiatives, unveiled at the 19th National Council on Transportation, are intended to reduce the nation's excessive dependence on road transport and establish a more integrated system.

Adebiyi emphasized the significance of rail expansion, highlighting the rejuvenation of the rail sector, recalling the previous strength of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC). The government has already completed and operationalized several rail corridors, including Port Harcourt–Aba, Warri–Itakpe, Lagos–Ibadan, and Abuja–Kaduna.

Work is also progressing on new routes, such as the Kaduna–Zaria–Kano line, which is near completion and expected to open by December. Other lines, including Kaduna–Daura–Katsina and Katsina–Jibia–Maradi, are also advancing.

Beyond passengers, the government is promoting rail freight to alleviate pressure on highways. For instance, a single train has moved 33 forty-foot containers from the port to Ibadan Dry Port, freeing up 33 trailers from the Lagos-Ibadan Road. The Smart National Transport Data Bank, approved by the Federal Executive Council, aims to create a central database containing information on drivers, vehicles, plate numbers, and operators nationwide.

This platform will introduce standardized manifests at motor parks, recording vehicle, driver, passenger, and destination details. Adebiyi noted that this will enable authorities to quickly identify those involved in accidents and track traffic violations more efficiently.

Six standardized bus terminals are also being developed nationwide, each 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, with violation penalties enforced.

Plans are underway for a high-speed rail line connecting Lagos to Maiduguri, with trains traveling at up to 360km/h. The administration also plans to implement light rail projects in Lagos and Kano, with further extensions to other state capitals. In the maritime sector, ongoing reconstruction and automation of ports aim to expedite cargo handling, reduce congestion, and cut costs.

These investments have also created jobs, with approximately 9,000 youths currently engaged in two major projects, with around 4,000 on each. The long-term goal is to ensure seamless movement across road, rail, air, and water, aiming to lower logistics costs, enhance safety, minimize environmental impact, and boost productivity.