Despite Nigeria’s well-documented infrastructural challenges, the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has earned commendations for its reliability and passenger-centric services.
Abayomi Emmanuel Egbonroluhum, a recent traveller, described the NRC as exemplary.
He noted, “The timing is impeccable. If you’re 15 minutes late, you’ll miss your trip, no matter who you are. The seat numbering system ensures orderliness, and the staff’s reminders at every stop make the journey seamless.”
Similarly, Shittu Abosede Eniestar lauded the NRC for its focus on passenger satisfaction, saying, “They reconfirm your presence onboard during the trip, which is very reassuring. It shows that it’s achievable if we want a working system like this.”
Recent milestones further underscore the NRC’s growing influence. For example, in Q3 2024, the NRC transported 743,205 passengers, generating N1.7 billion in revenue—a 25.05% increase compared to the same period in 2023.
Additionally, the NRC granted a three-year license to the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) to operate freight services on the Lagos-Ibadan standard-gauge railway line, further solidifying its role in boosting transportation efficiency.
The NRC recently took a bold step towards sustainability by unveiling a retrofitted dual-fuel locomotive powered by 70% Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and 30% diesel. This innovation cuts costs and reduces the corporation’s carbon footprint, marking a pivotal shift in Nigerian transportation.
Speaking during the unveiling, NRC managing director Fidet Okhiria emphasised the significance of this innovation.
“This marks a new era for the NRC and transportation in Nigeria. Not only are we reducing our carbon footprint, but we are also ensuring a more cost-effective and sustainable operation to serve our passengers better,” he said.
With consistent strides in innovation and efficiency, the NRC is setting a benchmark for public transportation in Nigeria. These testimonials and developments offer a glimpse of what is possible when functionality meets dedication—hope for a brighter, more efficient future across all sectors in the country.
