Railway Corporation licenses CCECC to operate freight services on Lagos-Ibadan rail corridor
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has marked a pivotal development for Nigeria’s transport sector by licensing the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) to manage freight services along the Lagos-Ibadan rail corridor.
This authorization makes CCECC the first company to operate standard-gauge rail freight services in Nigeria, a significant milestone in Nigeria’s rail modernization efforts.
Since the Lagos-Ibadan Railway’s inauguration on June 10, 2021, the NRC has expanded the line to accommodate increased passenger traffic and, more recently, commercial freight operations.
In 2023, CCECC joined forces with the NRC to establish dedicated cement and container freight services, demonstrating the corridor’s potential as a key conduit for regional trade.
This partnership aligns with Nigeria’s ongoing commitment to diversify transportation options and reduce heavy reliance on road networks for cargo transit.
As of October 2024, the Lagos-Ibadan Railway has successfully operated over 1,400 days, providing a safe and efficient transport alternative between Nigeria’s economic hubs.
The newly licensed freight service is expected to stimulate economic growth, reduce logistics costs, and open new opportunities for trade within Nigeria and throughout West Africa.
