The Lagos-Ibadan cargo rail services in Nigeria have been revived. The Nigerian Railway Corporation made the move in bid to address the nation's logis
The Lagos-Ibadan cargo rail services in Nigeria have been revived. The Nigerian Railway Corporation made the move in bid to address the nation’s logistics and transportation challenges.
By shifting 210 containers a week to rail, the initiative helps alleviate road congestion, reduces accidents, and boosts the efficiency of Nigeria’s supply chain. The move also offers truck drivers a solution to avoid Lagos’ traffic rules by picking up cargo from Ibadan’s Moniya Inland Dry Port. Rail freight’s cost-effectiveness, compared to road transport, makes it an appealing option for businesses and consumers.
Moreover, this development aligns with the Nigerian government’s broader goal of modernizing infrastructure to drive economic growth, as stated by Dr. Kayode Opeifa, the NRC’s Managing Director. The railway network’s growth is anticipated to lower consumer prices, improve trade, and stimulate the economy.
Multimodal transport system
This initiative is also benefiting the Apapa Port through a multimodal transport system, boosting exports and streamlining cargo evacuation, with exports increasing by 43% since 2022. Enhanced rail freight handling has proven vital for Nigeria’s trade competitiveness, encouraging more investments in the rail sector to sustain long-term economic benefits.
The Lagos-Ibadan Railway, built by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), serves as a critical connection between Nigeria’s economic hub, Lagos, and the industrial city of Ibadan in the southwest. Officially launched in June 2021, this 157-kilometer main line, complemented by a 7-kilometer branch line, is designed to modern railway standards and supports speeds of up to 150 kilometers per hour.
CCECC has provided comprehensive support for the railway’s operation, from technical assistance to training programs for local technical and managerial staff, directly creating job opportunities and developing a skilled workforce.