NRC, APMT launch Lagos-Ibadan cargo rail to ease port congestion

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), in partnership with APM Terminals (APMT), has officially flagged off container traffic on the standard gauge railway from Lagos to the Moniya Freight Yard in Ibadan.

The landmark event, held at Apapa Port, was presided over by the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of NRC, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, yesterday.

In his speech, Dr Opeifa highlighted the long-standing relationship between NRC and APMT in facilitating container movement across Nigeria, particularly to inland locations like Kaduna and Kano.

However, these operations were traditionally conducted on the narrow gauge network. The commencement of standard gauge container traffic marks a significant improvement in efficiency, with increased capacity and smoother logistics operations.

“This milestone event signifies the expansion of container traffic on the standard gauge rail line from APMT Terminal to Moniya Freight Yard. It will enhance import and export activities, providing a more efficient and convenient mode of transportation,” Dr. Opeifa stated.

The container train service will operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, with each trip capable of transporting 35 wagons of 40-foot containers or 70 wagons of 20-foot containers.
In 2024 alone, NRC recorded the movement of 362,327 tons of imported and exported containers via both the narrow and standard gauge systems.

Dr. Opeifa also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to modernizing Nigeria’s railway services, stating that efficient rail services are crucial to reducing the cost of goods, improving the standard of living, and addressing economic challenges.

Also speaking at the launch event, Chief Commercial Officer of APM Terminals Apapa, Caroline Aubert-Adewuyi, highlighted the improvements made to the service since its initial introduction in September 2023.

The new schedule ensures trains depart three times a week—Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays—providing businesses with greater predictability and efficiency.

Unlike the previous system, where trains departed only when fully loaded, the structured timetable allows customers to plan shipments in advance.

Additionally, payments for the service have been streamlined, with customers now paying exclusively to APM Terminals Apapa, which will facilitate transactions with all relevant stakeholders.

The relaunch comes at a crucial time, as traffic congestion in Apapa continues to drive up road transport costs.

By offering a cost-effective and time-saving alternative, the rail service aims to support Nigeria’s trade and export sector, particularly benefiting agricultural producers and perishable goods exporters.

Aubert-Adewuyi expressed gratitude to NRC, the Nigerian Ports Authority, and the Nigeria Customs Service for their collaboration, emphasizing that the improved rail service aligns with the Federal Government’s agenda to diversify the economy and boost exports.

With this relaunch, stakeholders anticipate smoother cargo movement, reduced dependence on road transport, and an overall boost to Nigeria’s logistics infrastructure.