By Uloma Peace Okorie
In a firm display of leadership and accountability, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr. Kayode Opeifa, has reassured Nigerians that the Lagos–Ibadan Standard Gauge Rail Service remains fully operational and secure, despite recent incidents of signal cable vandalism along parts of the corridor.
Speaking to journalists in Lagos, Dr. Opeifa described the acts of vandalism as “a direct attack on national progress”, vowing that such actions will not derail Nigeria’s rail modernization drive.
“The Lagos–Ibadan route is the pride of Nigeria’s modern railway system. We will not allow the reckless actions of a few to sabotage the nation’s progress,” he declared. “Our surveillance teams and security partners are on the ground to ensure the safety of passengers and protect national assets
Swift Response and Arrests Made
The NRC boss confirmed that two suspects have been arrested in connection with the recent signal cable vandalism, adding that investigations are ongoing to uncover wider networks involved in the crime.
He emphasized that vandalism of railway equipment is now being treated as economic sabotage, with offenders facing strict legal prosecution.
According to Dr. Opeifa, the NRC has intensified collaboration with the Nigeria Police, Civil Defence Corps, and community vigilante groups to enhance monitoring and intelligence gathering along critical rail lines.
“We’re combining technology, community partnerships, and security intelligence to keep our tracks safe,” he said.
Rail Operations on Course
Dr. Opeifa highlighted that despite the incident, the Lagos–Ibadan service has not been disrupted, with train schedules running as planned. He noted that the corridor remains one of the most viable and busiest routes in the country, contributing significantly to national passenger and freight revenue.
Recent data from the National Bureau of Statistics shows that rail passenger revenue grew by over 37% in Q1 2025, reflecting renewed public trust and operational stability across NRC corridors.
“These results show progress, not setback,” Opeifa added. “Nigerians are choosing the train again because of safety, comfort, and reliability. Our mission is to make every route viable and every passenger proud.”
Modernization and Security Drive
Under Opeifa’s leadership, the NRC is introducing technology-driven surveillance, automated monitoring, and community awareness programs to protect rail assets nationwide.
The Lagos–Ibadan route, inaugurated as part of Nigeria’s transport modernization initiative, continues to serve as a model for intercity rail efficiency, linking key economic zones and reducing travel stress on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway.
“Rail is the backbone of national mobility,” Opeifa affirmed. “We’re building a system that is safe, sustainable, and proudly Nigerian.”
Public Cooperation Urged
The NRC appealed to members of the public to report suspicious activities around rail lines, warning that sabotage endangers lives and disrupts economic growth.
Dr. Opeifa further assured that the agency remains resolute in its commitment to expanding rail connectivity and sustaining progress achieved so far.
(Editor’s Note)
Dr. Kayode Opeifa, a respected transport reform advocate and former Lagos Commissioner for Transport, assumed leadership of the Nigerian Railway Corporation with a vision to reposition the nation’s rail system for reliability, revenue growth, and safety. His proactive stance on vandalism and modernization continues to earn public confidence as the NRC moves steadily toward national rail transformation.