Federal Government Begins Eastern Railway Revamp to Boost Connectivity

The Federal Government has commenced the long-awaited rehabilitation of the Eastern Rail Corridor as part of its Renewed Hope Agenda to revitalise critical transport infrastructure across the country.

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) confirmed that work has started on the Port Harcourt–Aba section, a key stretch of the corridor expected to enhance economic activities and improve regional connectivity in the South-East and South-South regions.

The Eastern Rail Corridor rehabilitation project is designed to address decades of infrastructural decay that have hindered efficient movement of goods and passengers along the eastern axis. When completed, the revitalised line will serve as a strategic link connecting major cities, industrial hubs and seaports, reducing road congestion and promoting trade.

Speaking on the development, NRC Managing Director, Fidet Okhiria, said the reconstruction aligns with the government’s broader transportation master plan aimed at modernising Nigeria’s rail network.

He noted that the Port Harcourt–Aba section represents the first phase of the wider plan to fully restore the Eastern Line, extending through major cities including Enugu, Makurdi and Maiduguri.

The Renewed Hope Agenda prioritises the upgrade of key national assets, with rail infrastructure identified as central to driving economic diversification, job creation and regional integration.

Industry stakeholders have lauded the move, describing the project as critical to unlocking the economic potential of eastern states while facilitating ease of doing business and lowering logistics costs for manufacturers and traders.

The project is expected to create direct and indirect employment opportunities during construction and upon completion, offering relief to road networks currently overstretched by heavy-duty cargo haulage.

The NRC assured stakeholders of steady progress and compliance with global best practices in rail construction, safety and operational standards.

The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to ensure funding, technical support and timely delivery of the corridor, adding that the Eastern Rail rehabilitation remains a top priority under its ongoing infrastructure renewal drive.