- Opeifa Woos Investors to Support Nigeria’s Green Railway Agenda
- Says Nigeria’s Railway Future Depends on Sustainable Investment
- Targets Cleaner, Efficient Rail System
The Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr. Kayode Opeifa, has called for increased sustainable investment to accelerate Nigeria’s rail decarbonisation agenda, describing it as critical to the country’s economic transformation and climate commitments.
Eko Hot Blog reports that Opeifa made the call while speaking at the 10th Nigeria–EU Business Forum held in Abuja on June 25, 2026.
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He said strengthening Nigeria’s railway system would reduce carbon emissions, improve transportation efficiency and stimulate economic growth across the country.
According to him, rail transport remains one of the cleanest and most energy-efficient modes of transportation and offers significant benefits for both the economy and the environment.
“Rail remains one of the cleanest and most energy-efficient modes of transportation. By strengthening our railway network, we can significantly reduce carbon emissions, ease congestion on our highways, lower logistics costs, improve passenger mobility and stimulate industrial and commercial activities across Nigeria,” he said.
The NRC boss reaffirmed the corporation’s commitment to building a modern, efficient, safe and environmentally sustainable railway system through reforms aimed at strengthening rail infrastructure, improving operational efficiency, expanding freight services and attracting greater private sector participation.
He also highlighted the importance of the European Union’s Global Gateway initiative, describing it as a strategic opportunity to deepen collaboration between Nigeria and its international partners.
Opeifa said the corporation is seeking partnerships that will support railway modernisation, renewable energy integration, digital rail systems, green technologies, capacity building and innovative financing to unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s rail sector.
“Sustainable transportation is no longer an option; it is a necessity. As we work towards achieving our national development objectives and global climate commitments, investment in rail infrastructure will remain one of the most impactful decisions we can make for future generations,” he said.
He urged investors, development finance institutions, technology providers and strategic partners to collaborate with the NRC in transforming Nigeria’s railway system into a resilient, competitive and low-carbon transportation network capable of driving inclusive economic development.
Opeifa added that stronger investment in the rail sector would enhance regional connectivity, facilitate trade, create jobs and support Nigeria’s transition to a more sustainable transport system.
