On January 22, 2025, President Bola Tinubu appointed Dr. Kayode Opeifa as the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC).
This decision is seen as a significant step towards revitalising the country’s railway sector and addressing its operational challenges.
Dr. Opeifa, a seasoned transportation expert, brings extensive experience to the role. He holds a degree in Biochemistry from the University of Ilorin, as well as advanced degrees, including a PhD. Opeifa’s career began in academia, and by the age of 29, he was a member of the Senate at Lagos State University (LASU).
He entered public service in 2007 as the Special Adviser on Transportation to Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola. During this time, he spearheaded the reform of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and, in 2011, became the Commissioner for Transportation. His work modernised Lagos’s urban transport systems, establishing the state as a regional leader in mobility.
In 2019, Opeifa was appointed Vice Chairman and Team Leader of the Presidential Task Team on the decongestion of Apapa Port. His efforts helped restore order to one of Lagos’s most congested areas, further cementing his reputation as a capable problem-solver.
Opeifa’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment, as Nigeria’s railway system is being positioned as a key driver of economic growth.
Among the challenges awaiting him as Managing Director of the NRC are:
Upgrading the Railway Network: A priority will be to modernise Nigeria’s outdated railway system, including the rehabilitation of old lines and expansion to improve connectivity and foster economic integration.
Operational Efficiencies: Opeifa will need to address inefficiencies, ensuring that train services become reliable, punctual, and customer-focused in order to restore public confidence in rail transport.
Safety Standards: Improving passenger and freight safety will remain a major concern. Opeifa will need to implement robust safety measures, modern equipment, and regular maintenance schedules to minimise risks.
Financial Sustainability: Transforming the NRC into a financially sustainable entity will be crucial. This will require leveraging public-private partnerships and developing innovative revenue strategies for long-term viability.
Capacity Building and Staff Development: Training and equipping the NRC workforce to manage modern railway systems will be key. Opeifa’s experience in institutional reform will play a significant role in this process.
Dr. Opeifa’s expertise and history of transformative leadership make him an ideal candidate for this important role. His mandate to modernise and optimise Nigeria’s railway sector is expected to drive the NRC towards becoming a cornerstone of the country’s economic and infrastructural development. His tenure is anticipated to usher in a new era of efficient and reliable rail services in Nigeria.