The Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Kayode Opeifa, has highlighted the strategic importance of the Kano-Maradi railway project, describing it as a key driver for food security across Nigeria and West Africa.
Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise program on Saturday, Opeifa emphasized that the rail link connecting Kano in Nigeria to Maradi in the Niger Republic goes far beyond regional integration—it is deeply tied to the future of food availability in the region.
“According to AU Agenda 2063, African nations are encouraged to connect with landlocked countries because of the untapped potential they offer,” Opeifa explained. “From the literature I’ve read, the food security of Nigeria—and even West Africa—in terms of cereals and livestock, is strongly linked to Maradi.”
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He stressed that mobility cannot be separated from food logistics. “If you take mobility out of the equation, there is no food security. Logistics and supply chains rely entirely on efficient movement—and that’s what the Kano-Maradi rail line represents,” he said.
Opeifa further elaborated that the Kano-Maradi route is not an isolated line but part of a broader network that connects Kano to Kaduna, Abuja, and ultimately Lagos, forming a key artery for agricultural trade and supply.
The NRC boss revealed that the Federal Government is committed to an ambitious plan to redraw Nigeria’s rail map, ensuring that major cities are interconnected through efficient rail infrastructure. This move comes as a result of rail transport now being on the concurrent legislative list—allowing state governments to develop their own rail systems, possibly with support from local or international grants.
“The government is doing a new infrastructure map of rail to connect major cities. This opens up massive potential not only for food movement but for trade, commerce, and development,” he added.
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In terms of security and maintenance, Opeifa stated that local communities are actively involved in safeguarding the rail infrastructure, underscoring community participation as a core part of the long-term sustainability of the project.
Opeifa acknowledged public skepticism about the project, especially the focus on Maradi. “People often hear ‘Maradi’ and question its relevance. But what they don’t realize is that Maradi plays a vital role in the region’s food ecosystem. This rail isn’t just symbolic—it’s strategic.”
As Nigeria continues to battle inflation, food shortages, and logistical hurdles, the Kano-Maradi railway may prove to be more than just a transportation project—it could be the backbone of regional food security and economic stability.
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