In a bid to enhance connectivity and transport infrastructure, Nigeria embarked on the ambitious Lagos to Kano railway refurbishment scheme.
This monumental project seeks to elevate the existing 1,124 km narrow gauge rail line, seamlessly connecting the thriving cities of Lagos and Kano. The journey began in 2006, and due to funding challenges, it was strategically divided into segments. Here is an insightful breakdown of this transformative initiative:
Segment One: Lagos to Jebba (488 km)
- Contract awarded to China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) in 2006.
- Initially valued at US$ 1.76 billion, later reduced to US$ 1.46 billion.
- Marred by delays, quality concerns, and allegations of impropriety.
- Completed in 2012 and inaugurated in 2013.
Segment Two: Jebba to Kano (636 km)
- Contract also awarded to CCECC in 2009.
- Initial cost of US$ 1.49 billion, later adjusted to US$ 1.68 billion.
- Successfully completed in 2014 and inaugurated in 2015.
Segment Three: Lagos to Ibadan (156 km)
- Contract awarded to CCECC in 2012.
- Valued at US $1.53 billion, with US $1.26 billion provided by China Exim Bank as a loan.
- Completion achieved in 2020, with the official inauguration held in June 2021.
Segment Four: Ibadan to Kano (860 km)
- Contract awarded to CCECC in 2019.
- Estimated at US $5.3 billion, with US $4.5 billion extended as a loan by China Exim Bank.
- Ongoing development, challenged by funding limitations and the COVID-19 pandemic. Discussions are in progress with Standard Chartered Bank to secure additional financing.
The total investment in the Lagos to Kano railway refurbishment scheme amounts to approximately US$ 11.76 billion, with China playing a pivotal role as the primary financier. This visionary undertaking is poised to catalysed trade, bolster transportation efficiency, and spur economic development across the Lagos-Kano corridor. Moreover, it promises to generate employment opportunities, alleviate road congestion, and enhance road safety for all Nigerians. Join us as we witness the transformation of Nigeria’s vital rail infrastructure, paving the way for a brighter, more connected future.
