The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has entered into a formal agreement with the Plateau State Government to restore and resume operations along the Jos–Kuru railway corridor, marking a major step forward in regional transport and economic development.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by NRC Managing Director, Dr Kayode Opeifa, and Plateau State’s Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Jatau Davou. The initiative is expected to strengthen economic activity, lower transportation costs, and improve mobility for both passengers and goods within the state and beyond.
Speaking at the official signing ceremony, Mr Davou, who represented Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, expressed appreciation to the Minister of Transportation, Sa’ad Ahmed Alkali, and Dr Opeifa for their unwavering support, particularly in the face of various obstacles.
“This is not just about rail transportation; it is about restoring hope and economic prosperity to our people,” Davou noted, adding that: “we appreciate the United Nations for debunking negative narratives about our dear state and reaffirming our commitment to national development.”
The Jos–Kuru line, part of the historic Kafanchan–Kuru rail route, is set to become a strategic link between Nigeria’s Western and Eastern rail corridors. The line will provide crucial access for local communities, facilitate the movement of agricultural produce and goods, and significantly reduce both travel time and costs within the region. Initially operating on the existing narrow-gauge line, future plans include an upgrade to standard-gauge infrastructure under the national railway modernisation scheme.
Dr Opeifa, in his address, highlighted the significance of collaboration between federal and state governments in delivering essential infrastructure, commending Plateau State for its initiative in revitalising the long-neglected rail network.
“This partnership demonstrates how government at all levels can collaborate beyond politics, to deliver tangible benefits to Nigerians.
“We’re not just bringing trains; we’re bringing back dignity, economic empowerment, and national integration,” Opeifa added.
He also addressed recent media reports suggesting theft of railway equipment, clarifying that the claims were inaccurate. “Those coaches were not stolen. They were redeployed to Plateau where they are now being rehabilitated and put to productive use.”
To ensure smooth operation, the NRC will appoint a dedicated business manager in Plateau, who will oversee day-to-day running of the corridor. The project is also expected to generate employment, boost small businesses, and create new avenues for advertising and entertainment through rail services.
Dr Opeifa also reaffirmed that the initiative has received the full endorsement of the Minister of Transportation, Said Alkali, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He assured the public of continued federal support aimed at making efficient rail transport accessible to Nigerians.
“We will continue to rail across Nigeria—from Jos to Borno, from Aba to Port Harcourt, and everywhere in between. This is a new dawn for Nigerian rail.”
He added that commercial operations on the Jos–Kuru corridor would commence soon, reinforcing the Nigerian government’s commitment under the Tinubu administration to expand rail access across every region of the country.
