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Opeifa, new helmsman at NRC, unfolds multi- faceted transformative programmes to reposition  rail sector in Nigeria 

Funso OLOJO
The new Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation( NRC), Comrade Kayode Opeifa, has unfolded a multi- pronged  approach to making rail sector a critical artery of the Nigeria’s economy.
Opeifa, who officially took over the mantle of leadership at the Corporation on January 30th, 2025, pledged to run an inclusive administration that will enhance the operational efficiency of the NRC.
In his acceptance speech during the handling over ceremony from his predecessor, Opeifa, an expert in transportation, expressed his readiness to exceed the expectations of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu whom he said graciously entrusted the onerous responsibility of repositioning the rail sector in the country.
Unfolding his programmes of action at the agency, Opeifa promised to complete the ongoing projects in the sector, modernize rail  infrastructure and expand the NRC services to meet the growing demands of Nigeria’s population.
“I am grateful for the trust and confidence reposed in me to lead this vital institution, which is one of the oldest and most impactful in the history of our great nation.
“I am mindful that my role as the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation is to represent and be the face of the vision of the government as summarized in the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President, the various policy speeches and document of Mr. President and other authorised government documents from the Ministry of Transportation and other relevant government MDA as it relate to the Rail sector and as permitted by the NRC Act and other related directives.
“My presence here is to add value to an existing vision by ensuring the NRC adequately fulfils its responsibility to the Nigerian people under the Renewed Hope Agenda programs of Mr President.
“I will work in harmony with ALL staff of the NRC to deepen our operations of the National Rail System for the socio-economic development of our country.
” I am reminded of the critical role the Nigerian Railway Corporation plays in driving economic growth, promoting national integration, and improving the lives of our citizens.
“We will, together, work tirelessly to ensure the Organization achieves its mandate and exceed expectations.
“Our collective mission would be one of efficiency, safety, and customer satisfaction driven by passion for excellence.
“We will prioritize the completion of ongoing projects, modernize our infrastructure, and expand our services to meet the growing demands of our population.
“This mission will be tailored towards a robust transformation of the rail sector in Nigeria into a world-class, efficient, and safe mode of transportation.
“This mission is an integral part of the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President and the 25-year Strategic Rail Modernization Plan, which aims to create an enviable rail transport network that connects every state and major cities in Nigeria.
“Among others, we will priortise:
The security of lives and properties, working through the Ministry of transportation with the entire national security apparatus to ensure our resources, operations, infrastructure and customers are very safe and secured.
“Modernization and Expansion. Working with the Ministry of Transportation, our supervising authority, the various sub-national governments, relevant MDAs, stakeholders, and the organized private sector.
“We will focus on the upgrading of existing rail infrastructure, expanding the present rail networks, and introducing new technologies to improve efficiency and safety thereby engendering an improved travelling experience for our numerous customers.
“Increase in Connectivity: arising from the above, we will also improve/expand connectivity to major cities, ports, and economic hubs through rail links, promoting economic growth and development.
“Service Excellence. We will prioritize customer satisfaction by improving customer experience, ensuring that our services are reliable, efficient, safe and sustainable.
“Capacity Building. As expected of us as the leading rail services provider in the country, we will develop the skills and expertise of our staff, ensuring that they have the knowledge and tools needed to excel in their roles through the engagement of modern tools, technology and intelligence.
“We will also build capacity for the emerging sub-national rail project development.
“Collaboration through deepened relationship. Beyond and through the Ministry of transportation, We will work in collaboration with the various regional development agencies in the development and actualisation of their various regional rail systems and services master plans.
“Accelerating Project Completion. We will work to fast-track ongoing projects to meet the growing demand for improved rail services.
“Enhanced Private Sector Participation. We will create a more conducive and enabling environment to deepen existing Private Sector participation as well encourage new ones in line with modern practices.
“Improve on the commercial aspect of our operations for improved revenue, customer experience and satisfaction as well as sustainability of the rail system.
“Rail Sector Contribution to GDP. Will work extra hard to increase the rail sector contribution to the Transportation sector and National GDP.
“Collaboration for Service Delivery. We will work with other government service delivery agencies such as the FCCPC, PEBEC, ICPC, EFCC, CCB, SERVICOM, NOA to deepen transparency, and improved public perception.
“Staff Welfare. We will prioritise the welfare of our staff and their relatives to enhance their ultimate efficiency and delivery as well as ensuring better living and working conditions.
“Union Relations. As one of you, I promise on behalf of management to work with the various trade unions and associations within the best of harmonious and cordial relationship.
“Inter and Multi Modal Mobility. We will work with the Ministry and other relevant ministries to ensure the smooth inter and multimodality of the mobility systems in Nigeria as the Rail sector is set to take the center stage in the mobility sector of our national economic growth.
“Rail Economy. We will deepen the role of the NRC as the major rail service provider to encourage tourism, link people to jobs, link farm produce to economic and activity centers, improve on national logistics and supply chain management amongst others to have a positive effect on goods and services reducing multi-dimensional poverty.
“Job Creation and Skill acquisition. We will work with other relevant government agencies such as th NDE, SMEDAN, ITF NBTI, NITT and our educational institutions to promote employment creation and skill acquisition through the reactivation and utilization of the numerous resource centres of the NRC nationwide, especially our Training Schools and Engineering Workshops.
“Sustainability and Environmental Protection. We will continue to promote environmentally friendly practices and technologies to minimize the rail sector’s carbon footprint.
“Strategic Communication and Media Relations. To the media, please be gentle on us, we promise to work with you for timely information and communication, We will improve speedily and we seek your cooperation to effectively disseminate information relating to the operations of the NRC and the receipt of constructive feedbacks.
“Data, Technology and Innovation driven Repositioning. We will focus and rely heavily on data, technology and sustainable energy to bring about ,  a purpose-driven change management as we reposition the organization for greatness”
The new NRC helmsman pledged to leave a lasting legacy at the Corporation that would have been the pride of the nation.
It would be recalled that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the appointment of Opeifa at the twilight of January, 2025 as the new Managing Director of NRC to bring to bear his wealth  on the rail sector which is the critical mode of transportation.
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Customs

KLT Customs reaffirms commitment to stronger maritime stakeholder engagement

Deputy Comptroller Bolaji Adigun

Gloria Odion, Maritime reporter
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‎The Acting Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Kirikiri Lighter Terminal (KLT) Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Deputy Comptroller Bolaji Adigun, has reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to deepening engagement with stakeholders across the maritime industry in line with efforts to promote trade facilitation, transparency, and sustainable economic growth.
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‎Adigun gave the assurance through the Deputy Comptroller in charge of Administration, Comptroller T.A. Jonah, who represented him during a courtesy visit by the newly elected Executive Committee of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) to the Command in Lagos.
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‎The Acting CAC, who was unavoidably absent, underscored the importance of sustained collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service and key industry stakeholders, particularly the maritime media, in advancing the Service’s mandate and supporting national economic development.
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‎He described the media as a critical partner in disseminating information on government policies, customs reforms, trade facilitation initiatives, revenue generation, and anti-smuggling operations.
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‎According to him, maritime journalists occupy a strategic position in shaping public understanding and perception of activities within the port and maritime sector, stressing the need for professionalism, accuracy, and balanced reportage in the discharge of their duties.
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‎Adigun further assured the MARAN delegation that the KLT Area Command would continue to operate an open-door policy while fostering cordial and productive relationships with stakeholders within the maritime community.
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‎Earlier in his remarks, the President of MARAN, Mr. Oluyinka Onigbinde, stated that the visit formed part of the association’s ongoing stakeholder engagement initiative following the inauguration of its newly elected executive committee.
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‎Onigbinde explained that the purpose of the visit was to formally introduce the new leadership of the association to the Command and strengthen the longstanding relationship between MARAN and the Nigeria Customs Service.
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‎He commended the KLT Area Command for its contributions to trade facilitation, revenue generation, and enforcement activities, describing the Command as a vital component of Customs operations within Nigeria’s port system.
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‎The MARAN President also reaffirmed the association’s commitment to professional, objective, and development-driven journalism, noting that maritime reporters play a significant role in promoting informed discourse on issues affecting the industry.
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‎He further assured the Command of MARAN’s continued support for initiatives aimed at enhancing efficiency, transparency, and competitiveness within Nigeria’s maritime sector through responsible and factual reporting.

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Headlines

One infant, three adults die, several others sustain injuries in fatal train derailment along Warri- Itakpe route 

Funso OLOJO,  Editor 
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has confirmed the death of four passengers in a train derailment along the Warri–Itakpe Train Service (WITS) corridor near Agbor, Delta State on Monday, June 8th, 2026.
Several others suffered various degrees of injuries.
In a statement by the Ministry of Transportation  and signed by its Permanent Secretary, Engr. Funsho Adebiyi, the victims included two female adults, one male adult and one infant.
The accident involved four coaches which reportedly capsized while one coach derailed, resulting in the unfortunate loss of four lives.
The statement confirmed that a total of 442 passengers were booked on the train, while 40 crew members, security personnel, and third-party service providers were also on board, bringing the total number of persons on the train to 482.
The NRC had activated immediate rescue and evacuation operations with the support of the Delta State Government, NEMA, FRSC, the Police, Civil Defence, local authorities, security agencies, and other emergency responders, and were completed by 6:30 p.m on Monday .
The Injured passengers were evacuated to medical facilities in Agbor for treatment.
 Other notable individuals on board included the Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Senator Ede Dafinone, and former Delta State Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Patrick Ukah, among others.
As of the time of this release, 24 serious injuries have been recorded, while several other passengers sustained varying degrees of injuries and are receiving medical attention.
One NRC staff member suffered a traumatic limb injury and is currently receiving treatment and is reported to be in stable condition.
“The Ministry and the NRC extend their deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and pray for the quick recovery of all those injured.
“The Corporation also appreciates the swift intervention of the Delta State Government, emergency responders, security agencies, the NRC Mechanical Directorate, the Special Rescue and Emergency Team, medical personnel, and members of the public who assisted in the rescue efforts” the statement declared.
The ministry said full onboard manifest has been retrieved and will be made available upon request by the relevant authorities while efforts are ongoing to identify all the injured and deceased persons for proper documentation.
The Ministry in conjunction with the NRC have commenced a full investigation into the cause of the accident while efforts will continue to account for all passengers and provide the necessary support to those affected.
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Commentaries

Why Nigeria must prioritize competency development and standards to harness gains of  blue economy

Funso OLOJO,  Editor 
Nigeria is endowed with vast maritime resources which offer enormous opportunities for economic growth, employment generation, food security, and environmental sustainability.
With its fabled over 850 kilometers of coastline, extensive inland waterways, and strategic access to the Gulf of Guinea, the country is naturally blessed to emerge as a hub for maritime activities in Africa.
However , taking advantage of these huge massive maritime opportunities should be the priority of Nigerian government which must be intentional on developing competency level of its Maritime professionals and raise their
adherence to international standards.
The blue economy encompasses diverse sectors including shipping, fisheries, aquaculture, marine tourism, offshore energy, maritime logistics, shipbuilding, and marine environmental management.
 These sectors are highly knowledge-driven and require a workforce equipped with specialized skills and globally recognized certifications.
Without competent professionals, Nigeria risks losing economic opportunities to countries with better-trained maritime personnel and stronger institutional frameworks.
Competency development is essential for enhancing productivity, safety, and operational efficiency across the maritime sector.
Skilled seafarers, marine engineers, port operators, logistics professionals, and environmental experts are critical to ensuring that maritime activities meet international best practices.
 As global shipping and offshore industries become increasingly technology-driven, continuous training and capacity building are necessary to keep Nigerian professionals competitive in the international labour market.
Skilled maritime professionals such as seafarers, marine engineers and allied personnel in the sector could be sources of foreign exchange earnings for Nigeria as they could be exported to the international community.
Philippines and India are the world’s top exporters of skilled maritime personnel such as seafarers where they get the chunk of their foreign exchange.
If Nigeria could develop such capacity in skilled labourers in the sector and export their expertise, the country could harvest bountifully from such venture.
Equally important is the adoption and enforcement of internationally recognized standards.
Standards provide the framework for quality assurance, safety management, environmental protection, and operational excellence.
Compliance with global maritime standards established by organizations such as the International Maritime Organization(IMO) and the Nautical Institute enhances Nigeria’s credibility as a maritime nation and attracts foreign investment.
Investors and international partners are more likely to engage with institutions and businesses that demonstrate compliance with recognized benchmarks.
That is why the recent certification of the Maritime Centre of Excellence operated by NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited by the  UK Nautical Institute is germaine to Nigeria’s quest to develop training capacity and build compliance with standard procedures
This feat also underscores the importance of world-class training institutions in building local capacity.
That is why the  government should give necessary assistance to training institutions in Nigeria such as Maritime Academy of Nigeria(MAN),  Oron and the Maritime Centre of Excellence operated by NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited.
Such government patronage and assistance will not only improve the quality of maritime training in Nigeria but also position the country as a regional centre  for maritime education and professional development.
Prioritizing competency development and standards will also contribute significantly to maritime safety and environmental sustainability.
Well-trained personnel are better equipped to prevent accidents, manage maritime risks, and respond effectively to emergencies.
 Furthermore, adherence to environmental standards helps reduce marine pollution, protect biodiversity, and ensure the sustainable utilization of ocean resources, which are fundamental pillars of the blue economy.
From an economic perspective, a competent workforce and strong standards framework can increase Nigeria’s participation in global maritime trade, create high-value jobs, reduce dependence on foreign expertise, and improve the country’s competitiveness.
 It also supports local content development by enabling Nigerian professionals and companies to meet the requirements of international contracts and projects.
In conclusion, competency development and standards are not optional components of Nigeria’s blue economy strategy; they are foundational requirements for its success.
 By investing in human capital, strengthening training institutions, and enforcing internationally accepted standards, Nigeria can fully harness the immense potential of its maritime resources and transform the blue economy into a major driver of national development, economic diversification, and sustainable growth.
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