Nigerian Railway To Continue Movement Of Cattle

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has announced the resumption of cattle transport services from northern Nigeria to the southern region, following a suspension since 2017 due to technical issues.

Fidet Okhiria, the NRC Managing Director, revealed that this decision aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s recent creation of a new ministry for livestock development. The service will recommence on the Warri-Itakpe route, enabling herders and traders to transport cattle and other goods efficiently.

Okhiria stated that cattle transport by train could resume within one to two months, with the NRC aiming to modernize goods transportation across Nigeria. The new route will facilitate moving goods traditionally transported by road from the north to the South-South region, specifically Warri in Delta State, through Itakpe in Kogi State.

The NRC has procured specialized wagons for livestock transport, currently being assembled in Kajola, Oyo State. Okhiria added that 15 wagons have been built and will be deployed on the Itakpe-Warri route within the next month or two, aiming to boost the regional economy and improve logistics for livestock and other goods.

This initiative marks a significant step towards enhancing the efficiency and reliability of goods transportation in Nigeria, providing a safer and more economical alternative for traders and herders.