The Niger State Government has announced ongoing discussions with the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) aimed at reviving dormant rail lines and deploying fuel tank wagons to support the distribution of petroleum products across the state.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago revealed the initiative during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) at the Government House in Minna. The disclosure was contained in a statement issued Wednesday by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim.
According to the statement, the proposed collaboration is part of a long-term strategy to shift petroleum logistics from road to rail, especially in light of the closure of key state roads to articulated vehicles. Governor Bago said the plan would ensure a more reliable, efficient, and less damaging means of transporting fuel within Niger State.
“Discussions are ongoing with the Nigerian Railway Corporation to revitalize abandoned rail lines and explore the use of tank wagons for the smooth supply of petroleum products to Minna and other areas,” the governor stated, adding that IPMAN would be engaged in the planning process to ensure smooth implementation.
Strategic locations such as Beji, Mokwa, Akare, and Makera have been identified as proposed discharge points under the planned rail logistics framework. Governor Bago emphasized the state’s intention to fully utilize these rail corridors once operational.
Addressing Logistics Challenges
The move comes in response to logistical disruptions caused by the temporary closure of the Lapai-Paiko and Minna-Bida roads to heavy-duty traffic. While acknowledging the difficulties this has posed to fuel marketers and transporters, Bago defended the decision, noting it was necessary to prevent further deterioration of state infrastructure.
He also disclosed plans to construct toll gates and weighbridges along rehabilitated routes and encouraged marketers to acquire land near proposed toll points for future investment in mega fuel or gas stations.
“Our administration is committed to creating an enabling environment for private sector participation, particularly as Niger prepares to emerge as an oil-producing state,” he said.
National Context: NRC’s Rail Revitalization Drive
The Niger State initiative aligns with broader efforts by the Nigerian Railway Corporation to reactivate dormant rail corridors in collaboration with state governments. The NRC’s decentralised strategy is designed to bolster key economic sectors—such as petroleum, agriculture, and mining—by enhancing intra- and inter-state logistics.
Other states including Plateau and Enugu are also in advanced talks with the NRC to launch similar rail-based transport solutions. The national rail authority is prioritizing partnerships that can leverage existing infrastructure, ease the burden on overused road networks, and drive sustainable logistics development.
As discussions progress, the Niger State Government and NRC are expected to roll out a phased implementation planfollowing technical assessments, with input from key stakeholders like IPMAN.
