ENUGU – The Federal Government is actively prioritising the revival of the Enugu–Port Harcourt railway, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr. Kayode Opeifa, has confirmed.
During a courtesy visit to the Enugu State Government House, Dr. Opeifa emphasised that the Eastern Corridor project is receiving considerable attention and budgetary backing at the federal level. He said the growing demand for improved rail services in the region, especially among traders and business owners, was driving the government’s renewed focus.
“The Eastern rail line is a critical artery for commerce. We’re here to deepen collaboration with Governor Peter Mbah’s administration and align with his infrastructural vision,” Opeifa said.
He praised the Enugu governor’s approach to infrastructure development, noting that the new transport terminals being constructed in the state were exactly the type of structures that the NRC intended to integrate into its ongoing rail network expansion.
“Enugu is laying the kind of foundation that aligns perfectly with what we’re building,” he remarked. “It’s evident the governor knows what he’s doing—he’s focused, decisive, and doesn’t let obstacles get in the way.”
Opeifa added that President Bola Tinubu has directed the NRC to work closely with state governments to forge mutually beneficial partnerships that can boost regional transportation and stimulate economic growth.
He also urged the Enugu government to step up protection of NRC’s infrastructure, citing persistent vandalism by scrap scavengers as a serious challenge.
In his response, Governor Peter Mbah reiterated Enugu’s historic bond with the rail system, dating back to the coal era and the first coal shipments via train to Port Harcourt in 1918. He said the state is ready to support the NRC’s revival efforts and welcomed the renewed cooperation.
As work on the Eastern rail corridor progresses, both parties expressed optimism that the project would be transformative for the region’s economy—linking major commercial hubs and enhancing mobility for businesses and residents alike.
