FG, De-Sadel, China Liancai Set to Launch 4,000km High-Speed Rail Across Six States

The Federal Government, in partnership with De-Sadel Nigeria Limited and China Liancai Petroleum Investment Holdings Limited, is set to commence the construction of a 4,000-kilometre high-speed rail network spanning six states.

The project, backed by a $60 billion proof-of-funds, aims to transform Nigeria’s transportation infrastructure and drive economic growth.

The funding document was formally presented on Tuesday in Abuja to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, in the presence of the Minister of Transportation, Sa’idu Alkali, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, and representatives from the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation.

According to De-Sadel Nigeria Limited’s Chief Executive, Samuel Uko, the first phase of the project will cover approximately 1,600 kilometres, linking Lagos, Abuja, Kano, and Port Harcourt.

He confirmed that the administration has granted nearly 90% of the required approvals, and the proof-of-funds from the Asian Development Investment Bank has been submitted through financial and technical partners.

“Construction will be in phases. Once we complete individual sections, Nigerians will begin to enjoy the train service before the full 36-month schedule is completed,” Uko stated.

He noted that the project will require a power supply, supported by gas availability, thereby integrating the initiative with Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

SGF George Akume described the engagement with the investors as “stimulating,” while noting that the government will review the proof-of-funds to verify its amount and authenticity.

“We do not doubt them, but it is standard procedure for government to verify large financial commitments. President Bola Tinubu’s administration has made reforms to ease the cost of doing business, and if investors are ready, Nigeria is ready,” Akume said.

Minister of Transportation Sa’idu Alkali said the rail development aligns with the ministry’s mandate to provide safe, secure, and affordable transportation, as well as with the president’s directive to attract foreign investment into critical infrastructure.

On his part, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas) Ekperikpe Ekpo assured investors of adequate gas supply, citing Nigeria’s proven reserves of 210 trillion cubic feet of gas and an additional 600 trillion cubic feet in deep-sea deposits.

“Gas is a precursor for this project, and investors will not face shortages,” he affirmed.

Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) Director-General, Jobson Ewalefoh, said the submission of proof-of-funds is a mandatory requirement to advance the project.

“They have now presented $60 billion proof-of-funds from China. The next step is for us to review and validate their claims to ensure the project’s viability. This aligns with the president’s vision that Nigeria is open for serious business,” Ewalefoh added.

The high-speed rail is expected to reduce travel times, lower transportation costs, and boost trade and investment opportunities across the connected states while providing a major infrastructure upgrade to Nigeria’s rail transport system.