FG reopens Lagos-Kano rail line after repairs

The federal government has reopened the rehabilitated rail line connecting Lagos to Kano.

The Minister of Transportation, Saidu Alkali, announced this on his X handle today.

“I am delighted to announce to Nigerians that today 6th June 2024, the Federal Government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will be officially launching the reopening of this corridor for freight,” the minister said.

He added, “This significant railway route will create numerous opportunities for businesses and facilitate the movement of import and export goods between these crucial regions in the country.

“We intend that this railway service will facilitate the transportation of a substantial number of import and export containers, leading to improvements in transportation services, a decrease in road traffic accidents, lower costs of goods, and a boost to our Gross Domestic Product, GDP.

“Our dedication to the continuation and successful conclusion of current projects is guided by the principles outlined in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

He highlighted the support of President Bola Tinubu for the transportation sector.

“The President has consistently demonstrated his commitment to providing assistance and support for any initiatives that aim to improve the transportation sector in the country. We are confident that if future governments adopt the same forward-thinking political dedication shown by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we can realize the Nigeria we aspire to,” he stated.

Reflecting on the progress made and plans, the minister said, “You may recall that during our regular project inspection last month, I mentioned that we plan to resume freight services on the old narrow gauge rail line from Lagos to Kano in June after completing rehabilitation.”

He further detailed a recent success, noting, “Recently, we conducted a trial run moving import containers from Apapa Port in Lagos to Dala Inland Dry Port in Kano, and we successfully transported numerous 40 ft containers from Lagos to Kano in just a few days.”

“This freight rail line testing, spanning a distance of 1,132km, had approximately five locomotive driver changing stations at Ibadan, Offa, Mokwa, Minna, and Kaduna Junction. Through the Nigerian Railway Corporation, we have implemented a regular inspection mechanism to prevent potential vandalism of rail tracks, including the removal of clips and fish plates.”