The Federal Government has officially handed over the completed $3.02 billion Port Harcourt-Aba railway project to the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s transportation infrastructure development.
Handover Highlights
The 62-kilometer railway, a key segment of the broader Port Harcourt-Maiduguri Eastern Narrow Gauge Railway Project, was transferred during a ceremony in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The project, supervised by the Federal Ministry of Transportation, included:
- 283.060 kilometers of dismantled tracks.
- 62.800 kilometers of rehabilitated subgrade and mainline rail.
- 5.690 kilometers of sliding lines.
- Reconstruction of 27 turnouts across critical stations, including Port Harcourt, Elelenwo, Obuzor, Umugo, and Aba.
Mr. Ayo Dada, the project supervisor, noted that the project, completed in May 2024, has significantly enhanced passenger movement between Rivers and Abia states, offering faster and more affordable commuting options.
Future Expansion Plans
With the Port Harcourt-Aba section now operational, the government is shifting focus to the Port Harcourt-Maiduguri phase, a more extensive project aimed at revamping the Eastern Narrow Gauge Railway.
Dada highlighted that the contractor has provided detailed technical specifications and maintenance manuals for the Port Harcourt-Aba section, ensuring seamless operations and long-term efficiency.
Affordable and Safe Transportation
Representing NRC’s Managing Director, Adesegun Ogunade, Deputy Manager (Civil), commended the timely delivery and operationalization of the railway. He emphasized that the service has eased the burden of high transportation costs while improving convenience for passengers.
“Train services have made commuting between Port Harcourt and Aba faster, cheaper, and more convenient,” Ogunade said.
To ensure safety, the NRC has implemented robust security measures, including the engagement of local vigilante groups and additional protocols by the Federal Ministry of Transportation.
Background and Financing
The reconstruction of the Eastern Narrow Gauge Railway began in 2022 under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari. Key milestones include:
- A $3 billion funding agreement in March 2021 with a syndicate of Chinese financiers.
- Federal Government contributing 15% of the total cost, with the Chinese consortium financing 85%.
- Challenges with track laying caused by manual alignment processes, which delayed progress, were criticized by Transport Minister Saidu Alkali in September 2023.
Benefits to Nigerians
The railway provides affordable transport options for commuters while contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth by facilitating trade and reducing travel time. The successful completion of the Port Harcourt-Aba section demonstrates the government’s commitment to modernizing national infrastructure.
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