Nigerian Railway Corporation Managing Director Announces Major Port Interconnectivity Projects to Solve Logistics Bottlenecks

Kayode Opeifa reveals plans to connect Tin Can Island and Lekki ports to the rail network to ease congestion. Read the latest on Nigeria's rail expansion.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 11, 2026, 9:29 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Peoples Gazette

Strategic Integration of Rail and Maritime Infrastructure

The Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, Kayode Opeifa, has asserted that the success of Nigeria’s maritime reforms depends heavily on robust rail connectivity. Speaking at a Nigerian Ports Consultative Council meeting in Lagos, Opeifa warned that the potential of deep seaports will remain unrealized without an effective freight and logistics system. He highlighted that under the current administration, the corporation is prioritizing the movement of goods from port corridors to the hinterlands to achieve a more cost,effective and reliable transport ecosystem.

Expansion of Standard Gauge Lines to Key Western Terminals

In a move to optimize cargo evacuation in the Lagos region, the federal government has approved a strategic extension of the Lagos,Ibadan standard gauge line. This project will link the Apapa Port directly to the Tin Can Island Port, facilitating a seamless flow of imports and exports. Furthermore, Opeifa revealed that a dedicated rail line to the Lekki Deep Sea Port is slated to commence construction this year. This route is expected to pass through Ijebu,Ode and Sagamu before reaching Kajola, providing a high,capacity alternative to the currently congested road networks.

Enhancing Logistics via Eastern and Central Corridors

The infrastructure overhaul extends beyond Lagos to the central and eastern flanks of the country. According to the NRC boss, the Warri,Itakpe line is being positioned to connect the Warri Port, which will significantly improve industrial cargo movement in the central region. On the eastern corridor, plans are underway to link the narrow gauge network to the Port Harcourt Port at Onne. Additionally, the Lagos,Kano line is expected to connect with Baro Port, creating a comprehensive grid designed to support regional trade integration and enhance port operations nationwide.