China Pledges Deeper Collaboration With Nigeria On Rail Intelligence Systems, Sets 2026 For Joint Research Centre Launch
OLORUNDARE ENIMOLA, Lagos
The People’s Republic of China has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening technological cooperation with Nigeria in rail transit intelligence and control systems, with a pledge to establish a Joint Intelligent Control Research Centre in the country by 2026.
The assurance was given by the Deputy General Manager of China Railway Signal and Communication International Co. Ltd. (CRSCI), Mr. Yin Yungong, during the closing ceremony of the International Seminar on Rail Transit Intelligence Control System, held in Beijing and Suzhou between November 20 and December 4, 2025.
Mr. Yin commended the Nigerian delegation — drawn from the Federal Ministry of Transportation (FMoT), the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) and the Federal University of Transportation, Daura (FUTD) — for successfully completing the programme, noting that the training had adequately equipped them to support the transformation of Nigeria’s rail transport sector.
“Through this programme, I believe you have gained a deeper understanding of China’s rail transit technology,” he said. “Should you encounter any technical challenges while discharging your duties, CRSCI will remain your strong backbone, ready to provide full support to ensure the steady development of rail transit in Nigeria.”
He added that the cooperation agreement signed in August 2025 between CRSCI, the FMoT and FUTD would pave the way for expanded joint projects. “As part of our commitment, we will establish a Joint Intelligent Control Research Centre next year and strengthen collaboration on key projects such as the Abuja–Kaduna Railway Upgrade and Renovation, the Low Altitude Security System, and other new initiatives.”
The Vice-Chancellor of FUTD, Hon. Prof. Umar Adam Katsayal, mni, expressed gratitude for the successful completion of the programme and lauded CRSCI for hosting the seminar in what he described as a “grand and impactful” manner. He said the integration of classroom sessions with field visits enhanced participants’ understanding of modern rail control systems.
“We thank you for providing a conducive environment for learning. We return home with valuable knowledge and an eagerness to apply it in our institutions and workplaces,” he stated.
Representing the Federal Ministry of Transportation, Mrs. Olufisayo Mercy Afolabi conveyed the appreciation of the Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Ahmed Alkali, to the Chinese government and CRSCI for the well-organised programme. She noted that the seminar had significantly boosted Nigeria’s technical capacity in railway signalling and operations.
“This closing marks a milestone in a broader strategic partnership rooted in trust, shared standards, and our common goal of achieving safe, reliable and sustainable rail transport for Nigeria,” she said.
She expressed optimism that the training would support Nigeria’s plans to adopt modular and adaptive signalling standards, enhance interoperability, deepen local capacity development, and strengthen maintenance culture across the railway sector.
The Nigerian delegation is expected to return with insights that will support policy reforms, operational improvements and future collaborative research in the nation’s growing railway industry.
