The Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC) has commenced cargo operations after 10 years with the first haulage of goods from Ogun State to Niger State last week.
The first cargo operation in ten years commenced several days ago with 675 tonnes arriving Minna from Ogun State after 48 hours journey, about twelve hours quicker than its usual operation in the past.
The manager public relations of North Western District of the railway corporation, Abdulraouf Akinwuye said the cement transported was contracted from Luferage Company makers of WAPCO cement at Ewekoro in Ogun State. Akinwuye said that apart from less cost intensive nature of the train haulage services, the cargo train had the capacity to create job opportunities for the youths in the state and also enhance economic activities.
He explained that 50 youths were expected to benefit from the loading, off-loading and transportation of the goods in terms of employment.
The manager said with the cargo service of the train introduced in Nigeria there would be less pressure on the roads. He said for instance that the cement received in Minna would be distributed in Niger State and Abuja and would be regular to ensure people’s awareness of the service.
