Cynthia Ezegwu
President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to railway modernisation as a key driver of Nigeria’s economic transformation, declaring that the country must position itself as the logistics hub of Africa.
Speaking at the 2nd International Railway Conference in Abuja on Monday, themed “Opportunities and Challenges in Railways Development in Africa”, Tinubu — represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima — highlighted the central role of rail transport in industrialisation, trade, and sustainable growth.
“The world has remained committed to railway services because they represent more than a mode of transport. They have proven to be the backbone of industrialisation. They connect raw materials to factories, workers to opportunities, and farmers to markets,” Shettima said.
He stressed that railways are not only vital to commerce but also to cultural and social integration, citing China and Vietnam as examples of nations that invested heavily in rail infrastructure to accelerate development.
Underscoring Nigeria’s ambition to lead in modern logistics, Shettima said: “The challenge ahead of us is to lead this race by reviving and revitalising our railway services. We must be conscious of our place as the anchor of West Africa’s economy and home to the continent’s largest population as we prepare for the adoption of modern railway infrastructure.”
He pointed to projects such as the Kano–Maradi railway as evidence of the government’s commitment, noting that the initiative opens new gateways for trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area.
The Vice President explained that rail development is intended to reduce the burden on Nigeria’s overstretched road networks, which have suffered from decades of over-reliance, congestion, and accidents. “Railways offer safe, cheaper, and more environmentally friendly alternatives, reducing carbon emissions and reinforcing our commitment to sustainable development,” he said.
READ ALSO: Tinubu Back in Nigeria Tuesday After France, UK Trip
On the progress of ongoing projects, Shettima disclosed that the Kano–Maradi line, which stood at 5 per cent completion at the start of the Tinubu administration, is now approaching 60 per cent. “Our aspiration is for a nation where industries can convey their products to the market, and where raw materials can move seamlessly from primary producers to industries without hindrance,” he added.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, described the proposed Integrated Gas, Power, and High-Speed Rail project as transformative, noting that it has secured a $60 billion financial support letter from the Asia Development and Investment Bank. “This project integrates high-speed rail, power generation and transmission, energy infrastructure, and digital platforms. It offers significant opportunities for inclusive growth and national integration,” Akume said.
Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Ahmed Alkali, also gave updates on ongoing projects, announcing that the Kaduna–Kano standard gauge rail is now 53 per cent completed, while the Kano–Maradi line is expected to reach Katsina by December this year.
“The 387 km Kano–Maradi line, with extension to Dutse, has grown from 5 per cent to 60 per cent. While the Kaduna–Kano project will be ready for completion and commissioning by December 2026, the Kano–Maradi project will be ready by March 2027,” he said.
Alkali described both projects as crucial trade and integration corridors, emphasising that the Kano–Maradi route would open access for Nigerian goods into Niger Republic and other parts of West Africa.