The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has announced plans to resume train operations along the Kano–Minna corridor before the end of 2025, aiming to revitalize railway transport and stimulate economic activity across Northern Nigeria.

This development was revealed by NRC’s Managing Director, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, during an official visit to the corporation’s Northern District Office in Zaria, Kaduna State. According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Opeifa confirmed that the resumption plan would be implemented through strategic capital expenditure in 2025.

Restoration of Key Routes Underway

Dr. Opeifa stated that the NRC will channel its 2025 capital allocation toward restoring key equipment and infrastructure within the Northern Regional District. He emphasized the importance of leveraging the current rail governance framework—where railway operations now fall under the concurrent legislative list—to allow closer collaboration between the federal and state governments.

According to him, the NRC is already in discussions with the governments of Kano, Niger, and Kaduna states to restore shuttle operations on the Kaduna–Kano and Minna–Kaduna routes. These corridors are seen as vital for enhancing the movement of people and goods across the region.

“The NRC will fix the necessary equipment in the Northern District to ensure the resumption of train services on the Kano–Minna route before the end of 2025,” Opeifa said. “This aligns with our broader strategy to strengthen railway transport infrastructure in the region.”

Support for Health and Security Initiatives

Opeifa also disclosed plans to collaborate with the Kaduna State Government to revamp the NRC-run railway hospital in Zaria. This project, he noted, will help address healthcare needs for NRC staff and the surrounding community.

Furthermore, he pledged NRC’s commitment to supporting security agencies such as the Nigeria Police and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in tackling persistent issues of railway vandalism and infrastructure sabotage.

Reviving the North’s Largest Railway District

During the visit, the Northern District Manager, Mr. Adewale Rasheed, provided insights into the current state of the region’s railway operations. He described the Northern District as the largest by both landmass and workforce but lamented that it remains largely inactive.

He called for the urgent restoration of major routes including Lagos–Kano, Kano–Nguru, Kaduna–Minna, and Zaria–Kauran Namoda. Rasheed argued that reviving these lines would not only reconnect key commercial centres but also provide meaningful engagement for idle staff.

“The Northern District has the capacity and infrastructure to support full operations. What is needed now is investment, coordination, and a renewed commitment to activating dormant routes,” Rasheed said.

Workers Demand Better Welfare

Also speaking during the visit, Mr. Aminu Abdullahi, Chairman of the National Union of Railway Workers (NUR) in Zaria, raised pressing concerns about staff welfare. He criticized the long-standing issue of unpaid promotion arrears dating back to 2018 and the widespread stagnation affecting railway workers, particularly gangers.

Abdullahi also urged the NRC to resolve lingering issues related to the Railway Property Company, which he described as a source of “ongoing frustration” among staff due to mismanagement and poor oversight.

“The workers have remained committed despite the lack of incentives. It is high time the NRC acknowledged this sacrifice and addressed the unresolved welfare concerns,” Abdullahi said.

Economic Impact and Regional Connectivity

The revival of the Kano–Minna rail service is expected to significantly improve regional connectivity, reduce transport costs, and stimulate commerce in Northern Nigeria. This move is part of the federal government’s broader goal to enhance the efficiency of the rail network and reduce reliance on road transport, which remains expensive and vulnerable to insecurity.

Once operational, the corridor will facilitate the movement of goods such as agricultural produce, raw materials, and manufactured products between Northern markets and other parts of the country. This is particularly important for states like Kano and Niger, which serve as major trade and agricultural hubs.

By reactivating idle infrastructure and engaging local governments, the NRC hopes to turn the tide on years of stagnation in Nigeria’s railway sector and create a more integrated transport system.

Looking Ahead

The NRC’s renewed focus on revitalizing rail services in Northern Nigeria aligns with broader national infrastructure goals. With strategic funding and improved coordination with state governments, the agency aims to unlock the full potential of rail transport as a driver of economic development.

As the 2025 timeline approaches, all eyes will be on the NRC’s ability to deliver on its promises. The successful resumption of the Kano–Minna train service could serve as a blueprint for further railway expansion across the country, helping Nigeria meet its long-term transport and economic growth targets.