Lagos-Ibadan Container Rail Revolutionizes Cargo Transport in Nigeria

The Lagos-Ibadan Container Rail now facilitates faster and more efficient cargo transport, reducing congestion at Apapa Port. This initiative strengthens Nigeria’s logistics sector, streamlining freight movement between Lagos and Ibadan. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Government and Industry Leaders Support Lagos-Ibadan Container Rail

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) and APM Terminals (APMT) have launched container transport services on the standard gauge railway between Lagos and Ibadan. This project optimizes cargo movement, easing congestion and enhancing Nigeria’s logistics infrastructure.

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During the Apapa Port inauguration, NRC’s Managing Director, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, emphasized the initiative’s role in freight transportation. He stated that this milestone would boost trade, alleviate road congestion, and strengthen Nigeria’s multimodal transport system.

Dr. Opeifa highlighted that this expansion significantly increases transport efficiency, boosting capacity and ensuring smoother logistics operations. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to railway modernization under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

The enhanced rail system reduces transportation costs, improves living standards, and addresses economic challenges. NRC and APMT’s collaboration has long facilitated container transport across Nigeria, previously relying on the narrow gauge network.

“This service extends container transport via the standard gauge rail line from APMT Terminal to Moniya Freight Yard. It enhances import and export operations, offering a cost-effective logistics solution,” Dr. Opeifa noted.

The newly launched rail service operates on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, carrying 35 wagons of 40-foot containers or 70 wagons of 20-foot containers per trip. In 2024, NRC moved 362,327 tonnes of containerized goods using both narrow and standard gauge networks.

Lagos-Ibadan Container Rail to Transform Nigeria’s Freight Industry

APMT’s Managing Director, Fredrik Klinke, praised NRC’s efforts to modernize rail logistics and pledged continued support for infrastructure upgrades. He noted that two additional standard gauge lines at APMT would further transform Nigeria’s cargo transport sector.

The launch event attracted key industry stakeholders, government officials, trade representatives, and media professionals. Their participation highlighted the initiative’s significance for Nigeria’s freight transport and logistics industry.

APM Terminals Apapa’s Chief Commercial Officer, Caroline Aubert-Adewuyi, emphasized service improvements since the rail’s introduction in September 2023. She stated that the structured schedule ensures predictability, benefiting businesses nationwide.

Previously, train departures depended on full capacity, causing unpredictable shipment delays. The new system operates on a fixed timetable, allowing businesses to plan logistics efficiently. Payment procedures have also been streamlined for convenience.

“Unlike before, where multiple payments were necessary, customers now pay exclusively to APM Terminals Apapa. This simplifies transactions and ensures smooth coordination with all relevant stakeholders,” Aubert-Adewuyi explained.

The relaunch is vital as rising congestion at Apapa Port continues to increase road transport costs. This railway service offers a cost-effective alternative, benefiting businesses that rely on efficient freight movement.

By providing a reliable transport solution, the service supports Nigeria’s export sector, particularly benefiting agricultural producers and perishable goods traders. It aligns with government policies to diversify the economy and boost trade.

Aubert-Adewuyi acknowledged NRC, the Nigerian Ports Authority, and Nigeria Customs Service for their collaboration in enhancing freight transport efficiency. She stated that stakeholders expect this initiative to revolutionize cargo movement.

With the improved rail service now operational, industry experts foresee smoother logistics operations, reduced road dependence, and strengthened intermodal connectivity. This development marks a significant advancement for Nigeria’s trade and logistics sector.

Source, photo: von.gov.ng

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