The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has announced plans to restart train operations on the Kano–Minna route before December 2025, aiming to boost economic activities in Northern Nigeria.
NRC Managing Director, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, revealed this during a visit to the NRC Northern District Office in Zaria. He said the corporation will reactivate key equipment in the region using funds from the 2025 capital expenditure. The NRC is also working with Niger, Kano, and Kaduna state governments to restore shuttle services on Minna–Kaduna and Kaduna–Kano routes, reflecting a new railway governance framework that allows greater state involvement.
The Northern District, the largest by landmass and staff, has been largely inactive, with many staff idle for a long time. Regional District Manager Adewale Rasheed stated the urgent need to revive major routes like Lagos–Kano and Kano–Nguru to re-engage staff and restore operations. Meanwhile, the National Union of Railway Workers raised concerns about unpaid promotion arrears and career stagnation among staff, urging NRC to address these welfare issues.
Dr. Opeifa also announced plans to collaborate with Kaduna State to revitalize the railway hospital in Zaria and support security agencies in reducing vandalism of railway properties. This revival is expected to improve connectivity, facilitate trade, and strengthen rail infrastructure’s role in the region’s economic growth.
This development promises better transport options for commuters and traders, contributing to economic recovery and integration in Northern Nigeria. The NRC’s focus on modernizing infrastructure and addressing staff welfare signals a commitment to sustainable growth in the rail sector.
