Delegates of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations have commended ongoing improvements in the Nigerian Railway Corporation, describing recent developments in rail services as evidence of renewed efficiency and stronger operational focus. The remarks followed a rail journey by hundreds of NIPR members from Abuja to Kaduna aboard the Abuja-Kaduna Train Service for the Institute’s Annual Public Relations Week.
Participants from across the country, including several state chapters, had converged on Abuja before proceeding together to Kaduna by rail. Many said the decision to travel by train was deliberate, aimed at demonstrating confidence in the ongoing reforms within the NRC and supporting efforts to reposition rail transport. Delegates described the journey as smooth and well-coordinated, noting improvements in service delivery and onboard experience, while commending the conduct of NRC personnel, highlighting their professionalism and responsiveness to passengers.
While acknowledging the progress made, the delegates urged the Federal Government to sustain and scale up investment in the railway sector. They noted that rail transportation requires significant capital, particularly in infrastructure maintenance and rolling stock acquisition, but stressed that the long-term economic and social benefits justify the investment. Among those on board was the Olumobi of Imobi-Ijesha in Osun State, Oba Dr Jacob Adetayo Haastrup, who praised the appointment of the NRC Managing Director, Dr Kayode Opeifa, as a driving force behind recent improvements.
The NRC delegation to the conference was led by its Chief Public Relations Officer, Mr Callistus Unyimadu, alongside the Special Assistant to the Managing Director on Media and Communication, Mr Yinka Aderigbigbe. From an economic perspective, sustained investment in rail infrastructure reduces the cost of transporting goods and passengers, decongests roads, and lowers carbon emissions. The Abuja-Kaduna route, which connects the federal capital to a major northern city, demonstrates the potential for rail to compete with road transport for intercity travel. The delegates’ endorsement of recent improvements signals growing public acceptance of rail as a viable transport option.
