In a recent initiative, the Nigerian Railway Corporation has collaborated with APM Terminals to extend cargo transportation from Apapa Port in Lagos to NRC’s freight yard in Moniya, Ibadan, Oyo State. The Managing Director of NRC, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, emphasized the importance of the rail system under the current government, aiming to boost logistics efficiency, expand rail transport capacity, provide a cost-effective solution for cargo movement, and alleviate congestion at Apapa port.
The partnership between NRC and APM Terminals will see trains operating three times a week, carrying various containers sizes. The commencement of container movement on standard gauge rail from Apapa to Moniya marks a significant milestone, with plans for further expansion of rail lines within the corridor.
Dr. Pius Akutah, Executive Secretary/CEO of the Nigerian Shippers Council, acknowledged the positive impact of this development on decongesting port terminals and encouraged more government investment in the rail system for trade facilitation. He highlighted the cost-effectiveness and safety of rail transport for trade and praised the government’s efforts, particularly President Tinubu, in supporting infrastructure development for trade facilitation.