The Managing Director of Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr. Kayode Opeifa, says the Corporation has activated an ambitious plan to rehabilitate Nigeria’s old narrow-gauge rail network and reconnect communities that have remained isolated for decades due to collapsed rail services.
Speaking on The Exchange Podcast with Femi Soneye—an episode scheduled for release on Sunday—Dr. Opeifa described the revival of the narrow gauge as a national imperative and a strategic social investment, especially for Nigerians in rural and underserved corridors.
According to him, while the country continues to expand modern standard-gauge rail lines, the narrow-gauge system remains “the real lifeline for millions of Nigerians” and must be restored without delay.
“We must revive the narrow gauge because millions still depend on it”
Dr. Opeifa explained that the NRC is fast-tracking rehabilitation works along major narrow-gauge corridors, including the Lagos–Kano and Port Harcourt–Maiduguri lines. These corridors, he noted, remain the backbone of agricultural and small-scale commercial activities.
“The narrow gauge is still relevant. Many communities were built around it. People depend on it for moving goods, livestock, produce, and even themselves. Bringing it back to life is not optional—it is necessary,” he said.
He added that the narrow-gauge system offers immediate, cost-effective gains, leveraging existing infrastructure rather than starting entirely new projects.
Economic revival for forgotten communities
The NRC boss highlighted how many communities “lost their identity and economic life” after the collapse of narrow-gauge services. Returning trains to these areas, he said, will unlock commerce, mobility, and social interaction.
“When a train resumes operations in a place, the entire community wakes up. Markets grow, farmers can move goods, and people can travel freely. You will see life return almost instantly,” he said.
Affordable transportation remains a priority
Dr. Opeifa assured that the narrow-gauge network will remain an affordable transport option for low- and middle-income Nigerians, unlike high-cost modern rail systems built primarily for speed and efficiency.
“The narrow gauge is the people’s railway. It has to remain affordable. People should be able to move without worrying about high fares,” he said.
Security and technology upgrades underway
On security concerns, the NRC MD disclosed that the Corporation is expanding its collaboration with security agencies, deploying improved communication tools, and introducing digital monitoring systems along sensitive corridors.
He noted that community-based intelligence networks are also being strengthened to detect threats early.
Rail workers as national assets
Dr. Opeifa urged the public to appreciate railway workers, whom he described as “custodians of institutional memory” and essential to sustaining day-to-day operations.
He also revealed plans to intensively train young engineers and technicians to ensure continuity as veteran staff retire.
A railway revival that leaves no community behind
The NRC chief reaffirmed that the Tinubu administration is committed to a rail strategy that blends modern expansion with the restoration of Nigeria’s historical rail footprint.
He said reviving the narrow gauge is more than infrastructure—it is about restoring dignity and opportunity.
“Our message is simple: no community should feel forgotten. The narrow gauge is returning, and with it, hope for millions,” he said.
The full interview is trending on The Exchange Podcast with Femi Soneye.