Igbinedion Urges Fast-tracking Of Lagos-Benin Rail Corridor

A member of the House of Representatives representing Ovia Federal Constituency, Omosede Igbinedion, has urged the Federal Ministry of Transportation and the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) to prioritise the development of a rail corridor linking Benin City and Lagos under the country’s national transport masterplan.

Igbinedion said the proposed Lagos–Benin railway line would significantly boost trade, ease transportation challenges and improve security along what she described as a critical economic route.

Presenting a motion during plenary, the lawmaker noted that the absence of a viable railway alternative along the corridor has placed enormous strain on the national economy, while also endangering lives, disrupting supply chains and hindering regional integration.

She expressed concern that persistent insecurity along the route continues to discourage interstate travel and commercial activities, particularly among women, traders, students and farmers transporting agricultural produce.

According to her, the development of a modern rail line connecting the two major economic hubs would provide a safer, faster and more reliable means of transportation for commuters and businesses, while also reducing pressure on the road network.

“Developing a modern railway line between Benin and Lagos will provide a safer, faster and more reliable alternative for commuters and businesses, while also reducing pressure on the road network,” she said.

The lawmaker further emphasised that investment in railway infrastructure should be viewed not only as an economic strategy but also as a national security imperative, particularly in vulnerable and high-traffic regions.

She therefore called for the integration of security components such as surveillance systems, railway police and secured terminals into the design and development of the proposed railway infrastructure.