Nigeria Hosts 2nd International Railway Conference & Expo 2025 in Abuja
Leaders Call for Massive Investment in African Railway Development
The 2nd International Railway Conference and Expo 2025 successfully kick off a two-day event in Abuja, with the theme “Opportunities and Challenges in Railway Development in Africa – A Call for Investment.” The high-level gathering brought together major stakeholders from across Africa and beyond, including public sector leaders, private investors, foreign delegates, and global conglomerates.
Organized and sponsored by the Federal Ministry of Transportation, De-Sadel Consortium, and the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the event served as a critical platform for dialogue and partnership on the future of railway infrastructure in Africa.
High-Level Participation and Global Interest
The conference attracted significant participation from top-tier organizations such as CCECC Nigeria Ltd, Mota Engil Nigeria Ltd, Bureau of Public Procurement, Liancai Petroleum Investment Holdings Ltd, and the Director of the U.S. Import and Export Bank. Delegations also came from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Royal Kingdom of Morocco Railway, Republic of Benin, Republic of Guinea, and Ghana.
Speaking at the event, Honorable Minister of Transportation, Sen. Ahmed Alkali, highlighted the commitment of the Tinubu administration to revamp and strengthen Nigeria’s transportation sector. He emphasized the government’s readiness to support investment in railway infrastructure, noting that the conference would offer an “educative and eye-opening” experience for participants.
“We are committed to addressing the challenges and harnessing the vast opportunities in railway development,” Alkali stated. “We call on investors to come on board and help drive Trans-African and national connectivity.”
Visionary Rail Projects Unveiled
Dr. Sam Uko, representing De-Sadel Consortium, presented an ambitious plan for a high-speed rail (HSR) network spanning 4,000km and connecting all 36 states and the FCT in three phases. Phase 1, he explained, would link major cities including Lagos, Abuja, Enugu, Kano, and Port Harcourt—covering 20 states and the FCT.
Dr. Uko further revealed that the integrated infrastructure project includes high-speed rail, Floating LNG (FLNG), power infrastructure, and airports, projecting the creation of over 2 million jobs. He assured stakeholders that Nigeria does not need to borrow to fund this development, stating:
“Proper management of the railway system will generate substantial revenue without relying on foreign loans.”
Focus on Trans-African Railway Collaboration
Keynote speaker Rowland Ataguba, addressing the topic “Building Cross-Border Railway Corridors for Trans-African Trade,” called for deeper collaboration among African nations. He underscored the strategic importance of cross-border railway infrastructure for trade integration and economic development across the continent.
“Every nation has a role to play. Collaboration is not optional; it’s essential,” Ataguba said.
Presidency Reiterates Commitment to Infrastructure Development
Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, delivered a keynote address reaffirming the government’s commitment to infrastructure development. He stated that the administration is focused on revitalizing all sectors of the economy, including transportation, and welcomed international and local investments.
“We are ready to partner with the Ministry of Transportation, foreign investors, and the private sector to unlock the full potential of railway development in Nigeria and across Africa,” the Vice President said.
Looking Ahead
The event which will be rounded up today as a resounding consensus among participants on the urgent need for innovative partnerships, strategic investments, and policy alignment to realize the dream of a connected African continent through modern rail infrastructure.
