Nigeria is consecutively upgrading its railway system since the addition of an LNG locomotive decreases operating expenses, reduces carbon emissions, and spotlights the strategic utilization of the nation’s natural gas reserves.

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Nigeria introduces LNG locomotives to modernize its railways
Photo: TVC News

Nigeria invests in dual-fuel locomotive technology

Investment firm De-Sadel Consortium finished the testing of a DF8BN locomotive with a combining diesel-LNG configuration. Trials started a year ago and produced a winning result due to Polish supplier Dual Fuel System’s (DFS) Fuel Fusion system.

Don’t miss…Urbos trams: milestone production and global success

The tech lowers diesel injection and substitutes it with gas, saving costs and making the operation more environmentally friendly. The DF8BN, when first manufactured by CRRC in 2020, was the first African locomotive that exploited LNG-based dual-fuel tech.

In September 2024, the Nigerian government certified the delivery acceptance for the refurbished locomotive for Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC). The dual-fuel engine enables running on LNG by 70% and diesel by only 30%, and the gas is cheaper by 60%.

Nigeria und der railway modernisation von morgen

In March 2024, the authorities envisioned upgradings the complete NRC fleet with dual-fuel installations. De-Sadel inked a 20-year contract with the government, firming up its position as a pioneer in railway energy upgradation.

The country holds Africa’s largest natural gas reserves, so the LNG shift is both logical and cost-efficient. Nigeria’s transport strategy reflects a desire to reduce diesel dependence and cut its carbon footprint.

Experts make this shift a stronger railway competitiveness for Nigeria, a more reliable system, and an example of how national funds can fuel sustainable development. Thus, railway projects form an integral component of the nation’s long-term development policy.

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed:

Don’t miss…Container train pilot project reshapes Indian freight logistics

How that Nigeria is bringing in LNG locomotives?

It refers to diesel being partially substituted with LNG in locomotives, cutting costs and enhancing environmental quality.

Is dual-fuel technology available for use on all NRC locomotives?

Yes, the government issued orders to change the entire NRC fleet over to dual-fuel systems over the next several years.

How does the DFS dual-fuel system operate?

The Fuel Fusion system lowers diesel injection and replaces LNG, sustaining engine power with a drastic cut in operating expenses.

Find the latest news of the railway industry in Eastern Europe, the former Soviet Union and the rest of the world on our page on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, read Railway Supply magazine online.

Place your ads on webportal and in Railway Supply magazine. Detailed information is in Railway Supply media kit