MANAGING DIRECTOR/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF NIGERIAN RAILWAY CORPORATION (NRC) DR.. KAYODE OPEIFA ADDRESSES 10TH NIGERIA -EU BUSINESS FORUM

MANAGING DIRECTOR/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF NIGERIAN RAILWAY CORPORATION (NRC) DR.. KAYODE OPEIFA ADDRESSES 10TH NIGERIA -EU BUSINESS FORUM

ADDRESS BY DR. KAYODE OPEIFA, MANAGING DIRECTOR/CEO, NIGERIAN RAILWAY CORPORATION (NRC), AT THE 10TH NIGERIA–EU BUSINESS FORUM ON SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION AND GLOBAL GATEWAY OPPORTUNITIES FOR PARTNERSHIPS

Distinguished representatives of the European Union, government officials, development partners, investors, members of the diplomatic community, ladies and gentlemen,

It is my honour to participate in the 10th Nigeria–EU Business Forum to discuss a subject that is central to Nigeria’s economic transformation and climate agenda—Accelerating Nigeria’s Rail Decarbonisation Journey Through Sustainable Investments.

As Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, I firmly believe that rail transportation is not merely an infrastructure investment; it is a strategic national asset that promotes economic growth, environmental sustainability, regional integration, and social inclusion.

Rail remains one of the cleanest and most energy-efficient modes of transportation. By strengthening our railway network, we can significantly reduce carbon emissions, ease congestion on our highways, lower logistics costs, improve passenger mobility, and stimulate industrial and commercial activities across Nigeria.

The Nigerian Railway Corporation is committed to building a modern, efficient, safe, and environmentally sustainable railway system. We are pursuing reforms that will strengthen rail infrastructure, improve operational efficiency, enhance freight services, and attract greater private sector participation through sustainable investment models.

The European Union’s Global Gateway initiative presents a unique opportunity to deepen collaboration between Nigeria and our international partners. We welcome partnerships that support railway modernization, green technologies, renewable energy integration, digital rail systems, capacity building, and innovative financing that will unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s railway sector.

Sustainable transportation is no longer an option; it is a necessity. As we work towards achieving our national development objectives and global climate commitments, investment in rail infrastructure will remain one of the most impactful decisions we can make for future generations.

I therefore invite investors, development finance institutions, technology providers, and strategic partners to join us in transforming Nigeria’s railway sector into a resilient, competitive, and low-carbon transportation network that supports inclusive economic development.

Together, we can accelerate Nigeria’s rail decarbonisation journey, strengthen regional connectivity, create jobs, facilitate trade, and build a more sustainable future for our nation.

I thank the European Union, the organisers of the Nigeria–EU Business Forum, and all stakeholders for providing this platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration.

Thank you.