The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has reported a significant increase in freight traffic in the second quarter of 2025, moving a total of 159,130 tonnes of cargo across its standard and narrow-gauge lines. The data, obtained exclusively from NRC sources, underscores the growing role of rail in decongesting Nigerian ports and enhancing logistics efficiency.
Breakdown of NRC Cargo Haulage in Q2 2025
According to Mr. Yemi Odunowo, Deputy Director, Marketing and Commercial at NRC, the standard gauge network accounted for the lion’s share of the haulage, recording 146,120 tonnes of freight between Lagos and Ibadan. This included:
- 85,600 tonnes of Import and Export (I&E) containers
- 35,880 tonnes of cement
- 24,640 tonnes of other commodities
On the narrow-gauge network, the NRC moved 13,010 tonnes, made up of:
- 10,760 tonnes of I&E containers between Ebutemeta, Iddo, Ijoko, and APMT
- 2,250 tonnes of cement bound for Oshogbo and Ilorin
In terms of frequency, Q2 operations included:
- Standard gauge:
- 98 trips for I&E containers
- 26 trips for cement
- 17 trips for ENL cargoes
- Narrow gauge:
- 49 trips for containers
- 5 trips for cement
“This performance demonstrates the growing relevance of rail in cargo evacuation, particularly from Lagos ports,” said Odunowo.
Challenges Hindering Full Potential
Despite the positive haulage numbers, the NRC continues to battle a range of operational and infrastructural challenges, including:
1. Shortage of Rolling Stock
Odunowo highlighted that locomotive and wagon shortages remain a major bottleneck. Despite increasing demand from freight customers, the Corporation is struggling to keep pace due to insufficient equipment.
“We need more locomotives and spares. Procurement of additional wagons is an urgent requirement,” he noted.
2. Vandalism of Railway Infrastructure
One of the biggest setbacks remains the recurring vandalism of critical track infrastructure. The theft of clips, rails, and sleepers has led to delays, safety hazards, and increased maintenance costs.
“The cost of replacing vandalised track furniture is enormous, and each incident disrupts cargo schedules,” Odunowo lamented.
3. Weather-Related Disruptions
Heavy rainfall during the quarter also posed a threat to operations. Flooded tracks and weakened sleepers forced the NRC to suspend services in certain areas for safety reasons, with frequent inspections now a necessity.
Industry Reactions and Outlook
Logistics analysts say the Q2 results show a positive trajectory for rail-based freight in Nigeria. The increasing movement of cement and I&E containers points to growing industry confidence, particularly as road congestion, high fuel costs, and port access challenges intensify.
“Rail has helped reduce pressure on Apapa and Tin Can corridors, even if marginally,” one analyst noted. “If the NRC can address rolling stock shortages and secure its infrastructure, it could unlock even greater capacity.”
Conclusion: A Mixed Quarter of Progress and Setbacks
The NRC cargo haulage in Q2 2025 paints a picture of both progress and constraint. While the movement of over 159,000 tonnes of cargo marks a significant achievement, the Corporation’s ability to sustain this momentum will depend on how quickly it addresses equipment shortages, infrastructure vandalism, and weather-induced disruptions.
As Nigeria looks to diversify its logistics ecosystem and reduce overreliance on roads, a well-resourced and secure rail system could become a game-changer for freight mobility—but only if persistent obstacles are overcome.
