By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Presidency, led by officials of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, on Monday in Abuja, defended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu against claims of neglecting the North West, explaining why major infrastructure projects are ongoing and how they are being implemented to boost regional development.
Rail Development Drives North West Integration
The Director of Rail Transport Services at the Federal Ministry of Transportation, Finbarr Zirra, outlined progress on key rail projects.
He said the North West now anchors Nigeria’s national rail integration strategy. Moreover, ongoing projects aim to improve connectivity and economic growth.
Zirra explained that colonial-era rail lines lacked integration goals. As a result, they failed to support national development.
However, the 2002 Railway Master Plan changed that direction. It introduced long-term modernisation and sustainability targets.
Progress on Lagos–Kano Rail Corridor
Zirra described the Lagos–Kano corridor as the backbone of Nigeria’s rail network.
Currently:
- Abuja–Kaduna rail is operational
- Lagos–Ibadan line is functioning
- Kaduna–Kano segment is nearing completion
He added that the Abuja–Kaduna connection will become fully operational before year-end.
Kano–Maradi Project Gains Momentum
The Kano–Katsina–Maradi rail line remains the largest North West project.
According to Zirra, the 400km corridor has reached 60 percent completion. Earthworks are almost finished, which will speed up track laying.
In addition, a Kano–Dutse branch line is under construction. This covers about 100 kilometres.
Zirra expects the Kano–Katsina section to be completed before the end of the year.
Kano Set to Become Major Transport Hub
Zirra emphasised Kano’s strategic importance in the rail network.
He noted that four rail lines will converge in the city:
- Lagos–Kano main line
- Kano–Maradi international route
- Kano–Katsina branch
- Kano–Dutse line
Consequently, Kano will host Nigeria’s largest railway station by capacity.
He also highlighted efficiency gains. One fully loaded train can remove 30 trucks from roads. Therefore, logistics costs and road damage will reduce significantly.
High-Speed Rail Proposal Emerges
Zirra disclosed a proposed N200 billion privately funded high-speed rail project.
The plan will cover Lagos–Kano and Lagos–Port Harcourt routes. If approved, it will further modernise Nigeria’s transport system.
Presidency Counters “Neglect” Claims
At the briefing, Bayo Onanuga said misinformation created false narratives about the administration.
He stressed that many projects remain unnoticed due to poor public awareness.
Similarly, Tunde Rahman said the media tour aims to show real progress in the North.
He insisted that claims of neglect are inaccurate. According to him, projects in roads, health, and rail prove otherwise.
Renewed Hope Platform to Track Achievements
Meanwhile, Hope Uzodimma announced a new digital platform.
The website will document government achievements and counter misinformation. It will also improve public access to verified information.
