In a meeting with the House of Representatives Committee on Land Transport, Freeborn Okhiria, the Managing Director of the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC), highlighted the daunting challenge posed by rampant vandalism of railway tracks and assets across the country.
Okhiria described the situation as a significant battle against saboteurs intent on undermining the corporation’s efforts.
During the investigation initiated by the committee into the widespread vandalization of Nigeria’s railway infrastructure, Okhiria emphasised the severity of the issue, particularly on the Kabba-Kaduna axis where access for staff is restricted due to safety concerns.
Okhiria revealed that the Minister of Transport had established a committee to assess the extent of damage and the value of NRC assets nationwide. In response to the escalating threat, the NRC took proactive measures by restricting scrap sales to a single authorised company and implementing stringent monitoring protocols.
However, despite these efforts, recent incidents underscored the gravity of the situation. During a routine transfer of coaches from Kano to Lagos, vandals targeted the tracks between Offa and Ilorin, resulting in arrests. Additionally, confusion arose in Maiduguri when NRC officials were detained by security agencies, highlighting communication gaps.
Okhiria clarified that the movement of coaches from Maiduguri to Jos, intercepted by authorities, was part of regular operations to redistribute assets as needed. He emphasised that such internal transfers are within the jurisdiction of the NRC and do not require state authorization.
Chairman Blessing Onuh of the committee stated that concerns were raised following the Maiduguri incident, leading to the investigation. She expressed public apprehension over the safety of NRC assets amidst escalating incidents of vandalism nationwide.
The committee’s scrutiny comes amidst heightened public scrutiny and demands for stronger measures to safeguard Nigeria’s vital railway infrastructure.
As investigations continue, the NRC remains vigilant in its efforts to combat vandalism and ensure the integrity of the nation’s railway network.
