The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has reiterated its commitment to maximizing freight transport between Lagos and the Kaduna Inland Dry Port by the second quarter of 2025.
This update was shared in a video posted on NRC’s official X (formerly Twitter) account on Saturday, featuring a report from AIT News Channel. According to NRC Managing Director, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, while the necessary logistics are in place, a few non-logistical issues need to be addressed to ensure seamless freight operations on both narrow and standard gauge rail lines.
“There are some minor issues unrelated to logistics that need resolution. However, despite these challenges, the NRC is fully committed to ensuring that freight movement along both rail lines operates at optimal capacity. We are determined to achieve this goal by the beginning of the second quarter,” Opeifa affirmed.
He further stated that with the support of key government agencies, NRC aims to reach not just 70% efficiency but full capacity utilization. Similarly, Omotayo Dada, Managing Director of Inland Containers Nigeria Limited, expressed confidence in the growth of the Kaduna Inland Dry Port, predicting a substantial boost in productivity in the coming months.
“We anticipate a significant increase in productivity—possibly up to 70%—within the next couple of quarters,” Dada remarked.
Kaduna Inland Dry Port
The Kaduna Inland Dry Port, launched in 2018 to serve as a crucial logistics hub for agricultural exports, has struggled to operate at its full potential.
Freight transport between Apapa Port and the dry port has been inconsistent, with operations being suspended in September 2020 due to railway track rehabilitation. After a year-long halt, services resumed in October 2021.
To strengthen freight connectivity between the southwestern seaports and inland regions, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) recently approved a $45.3 million contract for a feasibility study and engineering design for a new railway corridor.
This proposed railway will connect Badagry Deep Sea Port, Tin Can Seaport, Apapa Seaport, and Lekki Seaport to the national rail network. It will also extend from Badagry through Lagos ports, Ijebu-Ode, and Kajola, linking with the Lagos-Kano-Maradi Railway Modernization Project. The initiative is expected to enhance freight transport, facilitate trade, and contribute to national economic growth.