NRC Seeks Rail, Road, Maritime Integration To Reduce Logistics Costs
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has called for the integration of rail, road and maritime transportation systems to reduce logistics costs, facilitate trade and unlock Nigeria’s economic potential.
The NRC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Kayode Opeifa, made the call at the Transport Correspondents Association of Nigeria (TCAN) conference on Thursday, stressing the need for an efficient and interconnected transportation network to drive economic growth.
Opeifa, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Aderibigbe, said the country must develop a transportation system in which rail, road, maritime, inland waterways and aviation complement one another rather than operate independently.
Speaking on the theme, “Unlocking Nigeria’s Economic Growth Through Transportation Logistics,” the NRC chief executive described transportation as a key driver of productivity, trade, industrial development, employment and national competitiveness.
He emphasised the strategic role of rail transportation in moving large volumes of passengers and bulk freight over long distances, noting that an effective rail system could ease pressure on highways and reduce the cost of transporting goods across the country.
According to him, improved rail connectivity would support the movement of agricultural produce, petroleum products, containers and other commodities while strengthening links between producers, markets and economic centres.
Opeifa said the NRC’s priorities extended beyond passenger services to include the expansion of freight operations and improved connections between railway lines, seaports, inland dry ports, industrial hubs and major economic corridors.
He explained that stronger integration among the various transport modes would enhance cargo movement, support businesses and contribute to sustainable economic development.
NRC Advocates Private Sector Investment
Addressing the funding challenges facing the transportation sector, Opeifa called for stronger public-private partnerships to bridge infrastructure and investment gaps.
He noted that government alone could not provide all the infrastructure and financial resources required to modernise the country’s transport system, urging greater private-sector participation in rolling stock, freight terminals, logistics hubs and other supporting infrastructure.
He also stressed the need for a regulatory environment that promotes efficiency, innovation and investment across the transportation industry.
Opeifa Warns Against Railway Infrastructure Vandalism
The NRC managing director further called for the protection of railway infrastructure, describing tracks, bridges, signalling systems and other critical assets as national investments that must be safeguarded against vandalism and encroachment.
He said the responsibility for protecting railway infrastructure rested with government agencies, security organisations, host communities and members of the travelling public.
Opeifa also underscored the importance of making transportation services affordable and accessible to Nigerians, noting that improved mobility would expand access to employment, markets, education and other opportunities.
He stated, “Investment in transportation is ultimately an investment in the productivity and wellbeing of Nigerians.”
The NRC chief executive reaffirmed the corporation’s commitment to supporting the Federal Government’s vision of a modern, integrated and efficient transportation system capable of advancing the country’s economic objectives.
He commended TCAN for providing a platform for engagement among policymakers, operators, investors, professionals and the media, noting that the media plays an important role in informing the public and promoting constructive dialogue on transportation development.
Opeifa expressed optimism that sustained investment, innovation, collaboration and effective policy implementation would help establish a transportation logistics system capable of unlocking Nigeria’s economic potential.
