The Federal Government is gearing up to launch freight services on the Lagos-Kano narrow gauge rail line, aiming to boost commercial activities and alleviate strain on the nation’s roadways. This development was revealed during an inspection visit by the Minister of Transportation, Saidu Alkali, to the project site in Kano State.
During the visit, the contractors, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, confirmed the completion of crucial sections of the rail line, including its connection to the Zawaciki Dala Dry Port in Kano, a vital commercial center in the state.
The introduction of freight operations is expected to not only prolong the lifespan of Nigeria’s highways but also significantly reduce the occurrence of accidents on the roads.
Minister Alkali expressed his satisfaction with the rapid progress observed since his last inspection, highlighting visible advancements in earthwork, culverts, and rail line preparations. “The progress is remarkable from what I have seen since my last visit,” he remarked.
He also mentioned traveling from Kano on the newly laid track during his inspection, indicating that the project is nearing completion stages.
Moreover, the Minister unveiled plans to segment the project to ensure efficient and prompt completion. “We are going to segment the project by the grace of God. We are planning to prioritize Kano-Daura next year and Daura to Maradi in 2026, and Dutse to Kano in 2026,” he explained.
This segmentation aims to streamline operations and allocate resources effectively across different sections of the rail line.
The inspection also involved a thorough review with a team from the Ministry of Transportation, engineers from the Railway Corporation, and consultants, to ensure compliance with timelines and specifications.
The Lagos-Kano rail line project is part of a broader government initiative to strengthen the country’s infrastructure, supporting economic growth and facilitating smoother movement of goods and people across key economic zones.
The introduction of freight services is seen as a crucial step towards enhancing Nigeria’s logistics capabilities and easing pressure on road transport.
