China is providing Nigeria with $60 billion to build a large-scale high-speed rail network spanning more than 4,000 km, connecting the country’s key economic and transportation hubs. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

China is providing Nigeria with $60 billion to build a large-scale high-speed rail network spanning more than 4,000 km, connecting the country’s key economic and transportation hubs
Photo: TJ Benson / Al Jazeera

China and strategic infrastructure investments

De-Sadel Nigeria (DSN), together with China’s China Liancai Petroleum Investment Holdings, has confirmed the availability of funds to execute the project. And now, since the government has granted 90% of the required permits, both sides are preparing to begin construction.

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According to DSN CEO Samuel Uko, the first phase will be financed by the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, established with China’s support to fund major global infrastructure projects.

The new network will be fully electrified and designed for train speeds of 200–250 km/h. And while route planning is nearing completion, preliminary works have already begun. The network will link the western corridor from Lagos to Nguru with the eastern line from Port Harcourt to Maiduguri. Trains of 8–16 cars from Chinese manufacturers will serve the routes.

China strengthens its presence in the rail sector

Nigeria’s government has divided the construction into three phases. The western section, stretching 700 km from Lagos through Ibadan to Ilorin, is expected to open in about three years. The central corridor will connect Ilorin, Abuja, and Makurdi, adding 1,500 km of track with phased commissioning. The eastern segment, 800 km long, will extend to Port Harcourt and integrate the rail network with ports and free trade zones.

To ensure stable energy supply, the Nigerian government will provide natural gas for the project. Servicing the loan will cost the country between $3 billion and $4 billion annually, with a repayment period of 15 to 20 years.

Earlier in January, the China Development Bank approved a $255 million loan for the construction of the 203 km Kaduna–Kano line. The remaining $917 million for that project was provided by Nigeria’s government, with construction handled by China Civil Engineering Construction.

Experts note that this program will accelerate economic growth, create thousands of jobs, and strengthen Nigeria’s position as a key transport hub in the region.

What benefits does China gain from investing in Nigeria’s railways?

China expands its economic and political influence in Africa while securing long-term contracts for technology and rolling stock supply.

When will the high-speed rail construction start?

Construction will begin after final approval of all documentation, with the first sections expected to open in about three years.

Will the trains meet international standards?

Yes, the project includes modern rolling stock that meets global speed and safety standards.

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