The Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr. Kayode Opeifa, has unveiled an ambitious plan to electrify most of Nigeria’s major rail lines within the next five years, aiming to modernise the network while curbing vandalism and boosting operational efficiency.
Speaking on the latest edition of The Exchange Podcast hosted by Femi Soneye, Opeifa described electrification as a crucial security measure.
He warned that unauthorised access to electrified tracks would be met with severe consequences.
“If you move close, it will roast you up,” he said, highlighting the deterrent effect of transitioning from diesel-powered locomotives.
The NRC is pursuing a collaborative model to achieve this vision.
Opeifa revealed that discussions were underway with Nigeria LNG (NLNG) and other gas companies to develop gas-powered systems that will generate electricity for both rail stations and tracks.
The initial phase of the electrification project would target Nigeria’s busiest corridors, including Lagos-Ibadan, Lagos-Kano, and Port Harcourt-Warri-Ajaokuta.
Electrifying these lines is expected to enhance security, improve operational speed, and reduce environmental impact.
Opeifa pointed to the Lagos Blue Line as an example of the benefits of electrification.
“Nobody is going on the Blue Line in Lagos because it’s electric,” he said, noting that technological upgrades can effectively protect critical infrastructure.
The electrification initiative also aligned with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to cleaner energy sources, forming part of a broader plan to make the Nigerian railway system more sustainable and modern.
Implementation would follow a phased approach. Within the next two years, the NRC aims to complete a pilot electrification project on at least one line.
The lessons learned from this project are expected to guide the nationwide rollout.
While funding and technical expertise remain key challenges, Opeifa expressed confidence in the capabilities of NRC engineers and the potential for international partnerships to bridge resource gaps.
He emphasised that electrified lines would form the backbone of future high-speed rail services, which require higher efficiency and speed than conventional diesel locomotives can provide.
Opeifa’s announcement underscores a long-term strategic vision to transform Nigeria’s rail network from an aging and vulnerable system into a modern, secure, and globally competitive transportation infrastructure.
Success in this endeavor will serve as a critical benchmark for the NRC and the current administration, with stakeholders closely monitoring progress on funding, technical execution, and phased electrification.
If achieved, this initiative promises to redefine rail travel in Nigeria, offering safer, faster, and more environmentally friendly alternatives for inter-city commuters.
