Federal Government approves $3bn Eastern Rail Project to revitalise Nigeria’s transport sector and unlock new economic opportunities in the East

The Federal Government approves $3bn Eastern Rail Project, signalling a decisive step in overhauling Nigeria’s transport infrastructure under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

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Transportation Minister Said Ahmed Alkali made the announcement during the fifth edition of the Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology (NITT) Stakeholders’ Summit and Awards held in Abuja, describing the investment as a bold and strategic move to revitalise a “vital artery” of the country’s economic framework.

Alkali stated that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved the multi-billion-dollar allocation, which will fund the completion of the long-awaited Eastern rail corridor.

This is in addition to ongoing projects like the Kano–Katsina–Maradi Standard Gauge and Kaduna–Kano rail lines, signalling a broader national effort to modernise critical infrastructure.

“The future of transport is being shaped by innovation, and Nigeria is not left behind,” Alkali said, pointing to recent achievements such as drone technology developed by NITT engineers in Zaria. “This milestone underscores our readiness to embrace indigenous technology,” he added.

He emphasised that beyond building infrastructure, it is essential to ensure they are “smart, inclusive, and sustainable,” aligning with global trends in green logistics, emission reduction, and intelligent transport systems.

The summit, themed *Building Sustainable Transport and Logistics Infrastructure in Nigeria: Current Trends and Future Insights, brought together key stakeholders, policymakers, researchers, and investors to deliberate on the future of the sector.

Alkali praised President Tinubu and the Director General of the NITT, Dr Bayero Salih Farah, for their foresight and commitment, including the recent approval of the National Land Transport Policy.

Other strategic initiatives, according to the minister, include the upgrade of national pipeline transport networks to reduce dependence on road haulage, boost energy security, and cut emissions from heavy-duty trucks.

Dr Farah echoed the importance of collaboration in charting a sustainable path forward. “This summit is a forum to reflect on where we are, identify what must be done, and chart a clear path for the future of a sector that remains central to national development,” he said.

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With this renewed focus on infrastructure and innovation, the Tinubu-led government is positioning transport not just as a support sector, but as a powerful engine of national transformation and economic revival.