NRC Will Continue To Prioritise Railway Workers’ Welfare – Opeifa

The Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr. Kayode Opeifa, has reaffirmed the corporation’s commitment to improving the welfare of railway workers and creating a safer and more conducive working environment across its operations.

Speaking during the second Town Hall Meeting held at the corporation’s headquarters in Ebute Metta, Lagos, on Thursday, Opeifa commended railway workers for their dedication, resilience and commitment, noting that their efforts have sustained railway operations despite prevailing financial challenges.

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Addressing workers led by the Nigerian Union of Railway Workers (NUR) and the Senior Staff Association of Statutory Corporations and Government-Owned Companies, Opeifa acknowledged the corporation’s difficult financial position, particularly the rising cost of diesel, which has significantly impacted operations.

According to him, the corporation has continued to operate at a loss and has had to rely on borrowings to sustain train services.

He, however, assured workers that management remains committed to their welfare and would improve conditions of service once the corporation’s financial outlook improves and revenues increase.

The NRC boss also pledged to maintain regular engagement with labour unions, stressing that under his leadership, disputes would be resolved through dialogue rather than industrial action. He directed the Human Resources Department to immediately address issues affecting staff productivity and operational efficiency.

On the contentious issue of monetisation, Opeifa explained that management would continue consultations with labour unions regarding the Federal Government’s decision to exempt the corporation from the monetisation policy introduced more than two decades ago.

He noted that staff rest houses were not designed as housing estates but as accommodation for essential operational personnel who must reside close to their duty posts to ensure efficient railway services.

Although labour unions secured a favourable judgment on the matter at the High Court, Opeifa disclosed that the corporation had filed an appeal to further explain the strategic importance of the facilities. He nevertheless assured workers that the NRC would abide by the court’s judgment while continuing discussions with all stakeholders.

Highlighting future expansion plans, Opeifa revealed that work would soon commence on a high-speed rail project linking Lagos and Abuja. He said the development would require additional operational space and modern accommodation facilities for key personnel, which informed the Federal Government’s decision to exclude the NRC from the monetisation programme.

The Managing Director further disclosed plans to rehabilitate the Corporate Planning Building, as well as the Accounts, Audit and Mechanical Buildings within the corporation’s headquarters. He also announced plans for the construction of a modern headquarters complex along Murtala Muhammed Way in Ebute Metta, which he described as a landmark project for the corporation.

Earlier, President of the Nigerian Union of Railway Workers, Comrade Innocent Ajiji, and the President of the Senior Staff Workers Union, Comrade Marcel Okeke, commended Opeifa for the reforms being implemented within the corporation. They also urged him to facilitate the Federal Government’s payment of the long-awaited 95 per cent enhancement benefit to railway workers.

The event featured the presentation of Certificates of Excellence and cash awards by the Managing Director to 13 outstanding workers drawn from various operational divisions and directorates in recognition of their exceptional dedication and contributions to the corporation’s growth during the 2025 performance year.