Lagos State Receives Permanent Rail Operating License

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has granted Lagos State a permanent rail operating license, a pivotal moment in Nigeria's rail transport history. This formal presentation took place during a ceremony where Dr. Kayode Opeifa, the Managing Director of NRC, emphasized the importance of this development.

The license enables the Lagos State Government to operate rail services under a track share agreement, which has been in place since the temporary license was issued earlier. The partnership between NRC and Lagos State dates back to April 2012 when former President Goodluck Jonathan approved the transfer of two federal rail tracks to facilitate the development of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit Red Line.

Passenger operations are set to commence on October 15, 2024. The permanent license represents a long-standing partnership focused on modernizing rail transport and improving urban mobility.

Dr. Opeifa noted that continued investment in rail infrastructure is essential for efficient mass transit in major cities and urged other states to follow Lagos's example.