FEC Approves $2.99 Billion for Major Rail Projects

On Thursday, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved a budget of $2.99 billion for three major rail projects: the Lagos Green Line rail project (Phase 1A), the Kano metro city rail project, and the Kaduna state light rail project. The announcement was made by Taiwo Oyeleke, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy.

This funding is part of the federal government's capital expenditure plan for 2025-2026, which aims to enhance Nigeria's urban rail infrastructure. The Lagos Green Line will feature a 68-kilometer rail corridor connecting Lekki Free Zone to Marina, with concerns raised about station space and access affecting ridership.

The project is expected to commence in July 2025, with the former Minister of Transport, Saidu Alkali, emphasizing its role in improving public transport and boosting economic productivity. Additionally, N150 billion is allocated for Kano and N100 billion for Kaduna as part of the financing arrangements.