FEC Approves $45.3M Nigeria Rail Connectivity Project For Seaport Integration

FEC Approves New Rail Connectivity Project to Boost Nigeria’s Freight Transport

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has sanctioned a $45.3 million contract for the feasibility study and engineering design of a rail network connecting four key seaports in Nigeria’s western region. This initiative aims to enhance freight movement and strengthen economic integration by linking Badagry Deep Sea Port, Tin Can Seaport, Apapa Seaport, and Lekki Seaport to the hinterlands.

The Minister of Transportation, Saidu Alkali, revealed this development during a segment on the Global Business Report aired on Arise News. LMSINT MEDIA confirmed that the approval was granted at the FEC meeting held on Monday, February 3, 2025.

Rail Network to Link Key Seaports and Economic Hubs

Alkali elaborated that the proposed rail alignment will stretch from Badagry Deep Sea Port to Tin Can Seaport, Apapa Seaport, and Lekki Seaport, then extend inland to Ijebu-Ode and Kajola, where it will integrate with the Lagos-Kano-Maradi Railway Modernization Project. This move seeks to improve trade efficiency and stimulate economic growth by fully integrating the western seaports into Nigeria’s national rail network.

“The Federal Executive Council has granted approval for detailed feasibility studies and engineering design of a proposed rail route from Badagry Deep Sea Port to Tin Can Seaport, Apapa Seaport, Lekki Seaport, and then to Ijebu-Ode and Kajola. At Kajola, it will connect to the Lagos-Kano-Maradi Railway to facilitate seamless freight transportation,” Alkali stated.

The contract, valued at $45.3 million, is expected to pave the way for future railway construction, ultimately improving Nigeria’s logistics sector and reducing reliance on road transport.

Current Rail Infrastructure and Future Prospects

At present, Apapa Port is the only western seaport linked to the rail network. A standard gauge railway operates within the APMT Terminal, moving cargo between Lagos and Ibadan. Additionally, a rehabilitated narrow-gauge railway facilitates cargo movement from Lagos to Kano.

By extending rail connectivity to all four major seaports, the government aims to boost Nigeria’s GDP, enhance trade flow, and decongest major roadways.

Key Developments in Nigeria’s Rail Sector

Lagos-Ibadan Rail Cargo Service: The Nigerian government launched cargo movement on the Lagos-Ibadan standard gauge railway in September 2023 to optimize freight transportation.
CCECC Freight License: In October 2024, the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) granted China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) a three-year license to operate freight services on the Lagos-Ibadan railway until October 2027.
Lagos-Kano Narrow Gauge Freight Revival: The NRC relaunched freight services on the Lagos-Kano narrow gauge railway on June 6, 2024, following a successful test run that transported multiple 40ft import containers from Apapa to Dala Inland Dry Port in Kano.

These initiatives highlight Nigeria’s commitment to enhancing rail infrastructure and leveraging connectivity solutions for improved economic growth and trade facilitation.