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The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has swiftly mobilized repair crews to fix a critical section of its narrow gauge rail line near Osogbo, Osun State, damaged by recent heavy flooding. This emergency maintenance effort comes as the nation prepares for the upcoming Eid-el Kabir (Sallah) celebrations, a peak travel period for millions of Nigerians.
According to a statement released on Tuesday by Callistus Unyimadu, Deputy Director of Public Relations at NRC, the floodwaters severely affected the rail track at kilometer 294+12 poles in the Oke-Onitea area of Osogbo. The washout, caused by intense rains on the previous Saturday, threatened to disrupt passenger and freight train operations along key corridors, including Osogbo, Ilorin, and Minna.
In response, NRC engineers were immediately deployed to the site to conduct urgent repairs, ensuring the track’s integrity and safety ahead of the Eid travel rush. The NRC’s Managing Director and CEO, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, expressed regret over the damage but assured the public that the corporation is taking all necessary steps to restore normal train services promptly.
“We are committed to maintaining uninterrupted, safe rail transportation for Nigerians during this festive season,” Dr. Opeifa stated. “Our teams are working round-the-clock to ensure the infrastructure meets the highest safety standards.”
The NRC also issued an advisory urging residents of Oke-Onitea and other neighboring communities along the railway corridor to avoid indiscriminate dumping of refuse. Such practices, it warned, often lead to blocked culverts and aggravate infrastructure damage, making the rail lines vulnerable to flooding and erosion.
Railway experts emphasize that the NRC’s proactive repair operations are crucial, especially during peak holiday seasons when passenger traffic surges. With the Sallah festivities traditionally prompting increased movement across northern and western Nigeria, efficient rail service is vital to ease road congestion and enhance travel safety.
The Federal Government’s continued investment in railway infrastructure and maintenance underscores its commitment to improving Nigeria’s transport sector, which plays a key role in economic development and national integration.
In recent years, Nigeria’s rail network has become an increasingly preferred mode of transport for many citizens during festive periods due to its affordability, safety, and reliability compared to road travel. The NRC has expanded and upgraded several routes to meet growing demand, including the Lagos-Ibadan and Abuja-Kaduna lines.
This latest repair near Osogbo aligns with the corporation’s broader mandate to ensure the resilience of Nigeria’s rail system, reducing service disruptions caused by natural disasters and infrastructure decay.
The NRC’s call for community cooperation highlights the importance of local support in protecting rail infrastructure. Environmental experts point out that proper waste management and community awareness are key to mitigating the impact of floods and other natural hazards on rail lines.
The corporation continues to pursue modernization projects, including transitioning from narrow gauge to standard gauge rails to improve speed and capacity. Efforts to electrify railways and implement advanced signaling systems are also underway, promising a safer and more efficient rail experience for Nigerians in the coming years.
For now, the successful repair of the Osogbo rail track ahead of the Sallah festivities marks a significant step toward ensuring seamless travel for thousands of passengers relying on the railway system this season.