South West receives NRC approval to operate regional rail services
By Adejayan Gbenga
The South West Development Commission (SWDC) has secured a provisional rail operating and track access licence from the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), paving the way for the commencement of passenger and freight rail services across key corridors in the South West region.
The Commission described the approval as a major milestone in efforts to strengthen transportation infrastructure and stimulate economic growth across Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo and Ekiti states.
According to SWDC, the licence does not authorise the construction of new rail lines but permits the Commission to operate services on existing narrow and standard gauge rail networks already linking major towns, industrial clusters and economic centres in the region.
It explained that the development will enable the rollout of its South-West Rail, Agro-Industrial & Logistics (SW-RAIL) programme, which is designed to improve the movement of passengers and goods while enhancing regional trade and logistics efficiency.
Speaking in Ibadan, Oyo State, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of SWDC, Dr. Charles ‘Diji’ Akinola, said the approval marks a transition from planning to full implementation of the regional rail initiative.
Akinola noted that the project is aimed at reducing dependence on road transport, lowering logistics costs and expanding access to markets for farmers, businesses and industrial operators across the South West.
He added that improved rail connectivity would significantly boost agriculture, manufacturing and export activities by strengthening supply chains and linking production hubs to major consumption and trade centres.
The Commission also stated that the rail network would enhance access to key economic gateways, including the Apapa and Tin Can Island ports, thereby improving cargo movement, distribution efficiency and regional competitiveness.
