The Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr. Kayode Opeifa, has reaffirmed the Corporation’s commitment to prioritising the welfare of its workforce, even amid mounting operational and financial challenges.
Speaking during the second Town Hall Meeting with staff held at the Corporation’s headquarters in Ebute Metta, Lagos, Opeifa commended railway workers for their resilience and dedication, noting that their efforts have been instrumental in sustaining rail operations across the country.
He, however, pointed to the Corporation’s difficult financial position, revealing that rising operational costs particularly the price of diesel have significantly strained its ability to run train services efficiently.
“Let me assure you that the Corporation will continue to prioritise your welfare. Your efforts have kept the system running. However, you must also understand our precarious financial situation. The cost of diesel alone has made operations extremely challenging. We are running at a loss and have had to rely on borrowings to sustain operations”, he said.
Opeifa assured workers that improvements in welfare packages would be considered once the Corporation’s revenue outlook improves. He also pledged continuous engagement with workers’ unions to address all outstanding issues, stressing that under his leadership, disputes would be resolved through dialogue rather than industrial action.
To enhance operational efficiency, the Managing Director directed the Human Resources Department to immediately address concerns affecting staff productivity.
On the issue of monetisation, Opeifa explained that the Federal Government had reconsidered its earlier stance after acknowledging the Corporation’s operational peculiarities. He clarified that staff rest houses were not intended as housing estates but as essential accommodation for key operational personnel who need to live close to their duty posts.
While noting that the unions had secured a favourable High Court judgment on the matter, he disclosed that the Corporation has filed an appeal to further clarify its position, even as it remains committed to upholding the rule of law.
Looking ahead, Opeifa hinted at plans to expand rail infrastructure, including the proposed construction of a high-speed train service between Lagos and Abuja. He said the project would necessitate additional operational space and modern staff quarters to support efficient service delivery.
He also outlined plans for the rehabilitation of key administrative buildings, including the Corporate Planning, Accounts/Audit, and Mechanical departments, as well as the construction of a new, modern headquarters along Murtala Muhammed Way in Ebute-Metta, Lagos.
Earlier, the President of the Nigerian Union of Railway Workers (NUR), Comrade Innocent Ajiji, alongside his counterpart from the Senior Staff Workers Union, Comrade Marcel Okeke, commended Dr. Opeifa for ongoing reforms within the Corporation.
They, however, urged management to expedite the Federal Government’s commitment to the payment of the 95 per cent salary enhancement for railway workers.
The event also featured the presentation of certificates of excellence and cash awards by the Managing Director to 13 outstanding employees drawn from various operational divisions and directorates in recognition of their exceptional performance and contributions in 2025.
The Town Hall Meeting formed part of ongoing efforts by the NRC management to foster transparency, strengthen communication, and build a more motivated workforce.