Vice President Kashim Shettima has called for the revival and revitalisation of Nigeria’s railways system as the only way to secure the nation’s position as Africa’s logistics hub.
Speaking at the opening of the 2nd International Railway Conference in Abuja, Shettima urged stronger networking and collaboration among stakeholders to drive progress in the sector.
He noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has prioritised strategic railway projects such as the Kano–Maradi modernisation to open new trade gateways under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The Vice President stressed that over-reliance on road transport has caused congestion, decayed infrastructure and high accident rates. Railways, he added, offer safer, cheaper and more sustainable alternatives that reduce carbon emissions and support the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Shettima highlighted ongoing projects such as the Lagos–Kano and Port Harcourt–Maiduguri rail lines, noting they are open to private sector participation to ensure timely and efficient completion.
He reaffirmed President Tinubu’s commitment to connecting all cities by road and rail to boost industrialisation, seamless trade and national integration.
Ministers, legislators, industry leaders and traditional rulers present at the conference hailed the initiative as vital for economic growth and poverty reduction.
