The Nigerian Railway Corporation has signaled potential completion of the Eastern rail corridor reconstruction before 2027, with Managing Director Kayode Opeifa expressing optimism during an inspection tour of Enugu’s rail infrastructure. The announcement comes as Southeast governors intensify pressure for accelerated delivery of the critical transport artery that once served as the nation’s most vibrant rail network.
During discussions with Abia State Governor Alex Otti, Opeifa acknowledged stalled progress on the Umuahia-Enugu segment despite earlier completion targets, attributing delays to funding fluctuations and weather variables. “Activity will resume soon,” he assured, revealing existing contracts for the Port Harcourt-Onne and Aba-Enugu sections now await full mobilization. The NRC chief dismissed rumors of diverted contracts to Gombe State as impossible under public procurement regulations, while confirming the federal government’s 15% counterpart funding had enabled ongoing work on the Port Harcourt-Aba stretch.
Governor Otti emphasized the project’s economic imperative, recalling successful collaboration on the Aba-Port Harcourt line while urging faster execution of remaining phases.
Opeifa addressed multiple operational challenges, from illegal land encroachments along rail reserves to the controversial demolition of NRC training schools by state authorities. He announced plans to revitalize training facilities for career progression of junior staff and warned against vandalism of rail assets, praising local law enforcement for protecting infrastructure in the zone.
The $3.2 billion project, originally launched in 2021 with 85% foreign financing, faces renewed scrutiny as communities along the 2,000km Port Harcourt-Maiduguri corridor await tangible benefits. With President Tinubu’s administration prioritizing rail modernization, the NRC’s revised timeline offers hope for restored connectivity, though funding uncertainties and logistical complexities continue shadowing the ambitious rehabilitation effort.
