Headlines

Opeifa, NRC MD, bemoans vandalisation, theft of rail infrastructure

— as two rail lines become operational in Apapa port to carry 100 containers daily

Funso OLOJO

The Managing Director of Nigerian Railroad Corporation(NRC), Dr Kayode Opeifa, has lamented the frequent vandalisation and theft of rail infrastructure across the the country.

Dr Opeifa, who was playing host to the leadership of the Chartered Institute of Transport Administration of Nigeria (CIOTA), led by its President, Prince Dr. Segun Obayendo at the Corporation’ headquarters, expressed concern about this development, calling on collective action to halt the menace

“Vandalism and theft remain major concerns.It is disheartening to see rail tracks stolen and sold illegally, which is why I am calling for collective efforts to protect this critical infrastructure” Opeifa declared.

He told his visitors that the focus of his administration in the Railway is the maintenance of critical rail infrastructure as opposed to his predecessors’ focus on expansion.

However, Opeifa disclosed that two additional rail lines will soon become operational at Apapa that will transport up to 100 containers from Apapa port and improving supply chain efficiency.

The leadership of CIOTA has met with the NRC to discuss avenue through which the two parties would collaborate and advance the future of rail transport in Nigeria.

Opeifa expressed appreciation for the recognition from CIOTA and the hard work and dedication of the railway workers whom he regarded as the unsung heroes who keep the trains running daily.

“We must ensure that the tracks we have are preserved and fully operational, allowing us to sustain consistent rail schedules despite existing challenges.

” I acknowledge the constraints we face, from logistical hurdles to infrastructure limitations.

“However, I am encouraged by the strong partnerships we have built, particularly with Chinese investors, to support rail construction and expansion” NRC MD asserted.

According to Opeifa, public support remains crucial, as government’s mobility agenda is multimodal, integrating rail with other transport systems for greater efficiency.

“On freight operations, I am pleased to share that we are making steady progress.

“Cement is now being transported from Ewekoro to Osogbo, and plans are underway to move goods from Lagos to Ilorin.

“Collaboration with state governments is also key to our long-term vision.

*The Lagos Red Line project is a great example of what is possible when states invest in rail corridors, and I am committed to seeing more of such partnerships take shape across the country.

Opeifa therefore urge CIOTA to play a pivotal role in attracting private-sector investment into the railway industry.

“A sustainable and thriving rail sector is not just about government efforts—it requires a broader commitment from industry stakeholders.

“We at the NRC are working tirelessly to upgrade our railway stations, improving amenities and aesthetics to enhance customer experience and boost patronage.

” I look forward to continued collaboration as we work toward a more efficient and reliable railway system for Nigeria” Opeifa concluded.

Headlines

Maersk’s suspension of shipping operations through Strait of Hormuz raises anxiety among Nigerian importers

Attack on vessel in the Strait of Hormuz

Funso OLOJO, with agency report

The on- going hostilies in the Middle East have continued to stifle international trade as most of the shipping companies have suspended voyage through the troubled Strait of Hormuz.

The joint attacks by the military forces of the United States of America (USA) and Israel on the Islamic Republic of Iran, which resulted in the assassination of its Supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khomenei and over 40 top military officers of the Islamic country,have put a strain on shipping operations along the busy vessel route of Strait of Hormuz as the Houthis militias, who are sympathetic to Iran, have threatened to attack vessels on the route.

Strait of Hormuz accounts for one third of the world shipping passage while the route accommodates the world largest crude tankers , despite its narrow width.

As a result of the threats, which have raised safety concerns on the vessels, cargos and crews, major shipping lines have halted their operations along the route.

Maersk, the world’s largest container shipping company, has halted passage of cargo vessels through the Strait of Hormuz for “safety” reasons.

“We are suspending all vessel crossings in the Strait of Hormuz until further notice,” the Danish group said in an online advisory.“The safety of our crews, vessels and customers’ cargo remains our key priority,” it said.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guard had earlier announced the Strait’s closure.

Major Middle Eastern oil and gas exporters rely on it to move supplies to international markets while importing nations depend on its uninterrupted operation.

China, one of the biggest destinations of Nigerian importers, make use of the route for import of the crude oil from the Middle East, especially Iran and export of its manufactured goods to the developing countries, especially Nigeria.

This development has raised anxiety among Nigerian importers who expressed concerns over the implications of the disruption on the route one the cost of imports, especially from China.

Headlines

NRC hosts Rotary Club on mobile train

Gloria Odion, Reporter

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has played host to the Rotary Club of Ota by hosting Nigeria’s first-ever Rotary fellowship on a moving train, setting a remarkable benchmark for innovation in civic and humanitarian engagement.

The groundbreaking event brought together members of the club aboard a moving train for fellowship, leadership interaction, and strategic discussion centered on service to humanity, climate action, and sustainable community development.

The fellowship was led by the President of the Rotary Club of Ota, Mr. Charles Umukoro, alongside members of the club’s executive and general membership.

A major highlight of the occasion was the visit of the Railway District Manager, Engr. Rasheed Adedeji, who warmly welcomed the Rotarians on board.

His presence underscored the significance of the event and further strengthened the cordial relationship between the railway management and the Rotary Club.

In a symbolic moment reflecting shared values of service and partnership, Engr. Rasheed Adedeji was formally inducted as a member of the Rotary Club of Ota following his welcome address, adding prestige and deeper institutional collaboration to the landmark fellowship.

The moving-train fellowship was widely described as symbolic of progress, innovation, and forward movement—values that align closely with the transformation agenda of the Nigerian Railway Corporation.

The Nigerian Railway Corporation said it was committed to supporting initiatives that promote national development, environmental sustainability, and community advancement, while showcasing the railway as a safe, modern, and strategic platform for engagement.

Headlines

In Malmo, Sweden, NIMASA renews capacity development partnership with WMU

Gloria Odion, Maritime Reporter

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), has renewed its strategic capacity development partnership with the World Maritime University (WMU), Malmö, Sweden, through the signing of a four-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s maritime human capital and institutional capacity.

Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony, the Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, described the partnership as a critical pillar in NIMASA’s human capital development framework and a strategic investment in Nigeria’s maritime future.

“This collaboration has significantly strengthened our technical and regulatory capabilities over the years.

“Officers trained at WMU have enhanced our effectiveness in maritime safety administration, environmental compliance, maritime law, and shipping management.

“Their expertise has also reinforced Nigeria’s participation at the International Maritime Organization and other international maritime platforms,” he stated.

Under the renewed MoU, which was first signed in 2022, NIMASA will sponsor at least ten officers annually for the 14-month Master of Science programme at WMU in Malmö for the 2026–2029 intakes, as well as at least one officer for the Master of Philosophy (MPhil) programme jointly delivered by WMU and the International Maritime Law Institute (IMLI), Malta.

The MoU also provides for distance learning, executive professional development courses, research collaboration and technical assistance to strengthen NIMASA’s capacity in maritime safety, environmental management, seafarer certification and implementation of international maritime instruments.

WMU will further seek additional fellowships from international donors for qualified NIMASA candidates.

Dr. Mobereola endorsed the MoU on behalf of NIMASA with the President of WMU, Professor Maximo Q. Mejia Jr signing on behalf of the University while Executive Director Finance and Administration, NIMASA ,Chudi Offodile and the Registrar of WMU, Mr. Peter Marriott both signed as witnesses.

Established in 1983 by the International Maritime Organization, WMU was mandated to strengthen global maritime capacity, particularly in developing countries.

The University has since become a leading centre of excellence, and Nigeria has benefited significantly through the training of NIMASA officers who continue to enhance national maritime governance and international engagement.