The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has announced plans to offer rail services for transporting cattle from the northern region to the southern part of the country. This initiative, disclosed by NRC Managing Director Fidet Okhiria during a Channels TV programme on Wednesday, aims to streamline livestock logistics and boost economic activity across regions.
Speaking on the planned services, Okhiria highlighted that the transportation of cows and goods will recommence via the Warri-Itakpe route. The Warri-Itakpe train service is set to resume cattle transportation within one to two months, facilitating the movement of livestock from Itakpe in Kogi State to Warri in Delta State.
“We’ve built 15 wagons for livestock, and maybe in the next month or two months, they would be deployed from Itakpe to Warri to drive the economy,” Okhiria stated. He emphasized the NRC’s commitment to supporting the agricultural sector through improved logistics and transportation infrastructure.
The NRC has acquired specialized wagons designed specifically for transporting livestock, which are currently being assembled at the Kajola facility in Oyo State. These wagons are expected to enhance the efficiency and safety of cattle transport, reducing the strain on road networks and providing a more reliable alternative for herders.
Okhiria also noted the broader economic benefits of this initiative, stating that while the direct financial gains might not be substantial for the government, the indirect earnings and overall economic growth would be significant. By providing a more efficient means of transporting cattle, the NRC aims to support farmers and herders, reduce transportation costs, and minimize losses associated with traditional road transport.
The resumption of the Warri-Itakpe train service for cattle transportation marks a strategic move to leverage Nigeria’s rail infrastructure for agricultural development.
This initiative is expected to not only improve the logistics of cattle movement but also contribute to the economic integration of northern and southern regions, fostering national unity and development.
As the NRC prepares to deploy these specialized wagons, stakeholders in the agricultural sector are optimistic about the potential positive impacts on livestock farming and the broader economy.
The move aligns with the federal government’s efforts to revitalize and modernize Nigeria’s railway system, making it a critical component of the nation’s economic framework.
This development heralds a new chapter for the Nigerian Railway Corporation, demonstrating its role in driving economic growth through innovative and sector-specific solutions.
