The Kaduna-Kano train service is set to begin operations in the first quarter of 2025, according to Mr. Fidet Okhiria, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD/CEO) of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC),leadership reports.
Okhiria shared this update during an inspection of the Rigasa Train Station in Kaduna, following recent incidents of vandalism along the corridor.
“The Kaduna-Kano train is progressing well. The track has reached Makarfi Local Government Area from Kano, and we are hopeful that by early next year, passengers will be able to travel from Abuja through Kaduna to Kano,” said Okhiria.
He expressed concerns over the rising cost of diesel and ongoing security challenges, which have been hindering operations.
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Discussing patronage, Okhiria noted, “Initially, our patronage was high, but following the attack in March 2023, there was a decline. We were operating 10 trains, but due to the incident and rising diesel costs, we have had to reduce the frequency and limit operations to daylight hours only.
“When we began, diesel was priced between N230 and N280 per litre; it now ranges from N1,000 to N2,000 depending on the supplier. Since rail service is meant to benefit the public, the government has decided to maintain fare prices despite these increases,” he added.
Addressing vandalism, Okhiria highlighted, “The Federal Government is implementing measures to enhance security for the train and its components. We are collaborating with the Commissioner of Police and other security agencies to bolster protection for our customers and prevent the theft of sleepers from the tracks.
“Security is paramount because our trains also transport goods. We are currently carrying pipelines from Itakpe in Warri and containers from Lagos to Kaduna, Idah, and Kano. Enhanced surveillance is in place across all stations. We will continue to work closely with security agencies to ensure the safety of the rail service. Currently, we provide air surveillance on the Abuja-Kaduna route, and this will be expanded to other areas soon.”
Okhiria expressed optimism about deploying technology to monitor trains and tracks, similar to mobile phone tracking, to address vandalism nationwide.
Regarding ticket racketeering, Okhiria pointed out that the introduction of e-ticketing has significantly reduced such incidents.
“We have minimized staff contact with customers by enabling online ticket purchases and implementing equipment that checks passengers in and out of stations,” he concluded.
