By CHIAZO OGBOLU

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has presented a permanent operating licence to the Lagos State Government for the Lagos Rail Mass Transit (LRMT) Red Line.

The NRC Managing Director, Dr Kayode Opeifa, speaking at the presentation on Tuesday in Lagos noted that the licensing marked a major milestone in Nigeria’s railway sector.

Opeifa said the licence signalled a shift from the corporation’s long-standing role as the country’s sole rail operator.

He said the development aligned with global best practices of allowing multiple operators to provide rail services within a regulated railway system while the NRC retained its statutory responsibilities.

Opeifa recalled that former President Goodluck Jonathan approved the transfer of two federal rail tracks to Lagos State in 2012, paving the way for the development of the LRMT Red Line.

He said the Red Line began passenger operations on October 15, 2024, after its inauguration by President Bola Tinubu, with the NRC also providing operational training for its personnel.

According to him, the permanent licence, issued through the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), formally authorises Lagos State to operate services on the shared rail corridor under the Track Sharing Agreement.

“The licence also empowers the state to operate other rail systems in line with international best practices, reflecting growing confidence in the partnership,” he said.

The NRC boss commended the Lagos State Government for its sustained investment in rail infrastructure, rolling stock acquisition, and commitment to improving public transportation across the state.

He urged other state governments to invest in railway infrastructure, adding that expanded rail services would ease road congestion, reduce logistics costs, improve mobility, and support economic growth.

The NRC boss reaffirmed the corporation’s commitment to partnerships that promote an integrated, safe, efficient, and sustainable railway network.

He commended the assessment officials for ensuring the Red Line met operational standards before the licence was granted. (NAN)

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