By Benson Daniel
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has graduated 31 locomotive pilots as part of efforts to strengthen manpower and support the ongoing expansion of the country’s rail transportation network.
The newly certified locomotive pilots completed intensive training designed to equip them with the technical knowledge and operational skills required to safely operate modern rail systems. The graduation marks another step in the corporation’s drive to improve service delivery and enhance rail transportation across the country.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, NRC officials said the programme reflects the corporation’s commitment to developing a highly skilled workforce capable of meeting the growing demands of Nigeria’s expanding railway infrastructure. They noted that the graduates would play a vital role in improving operational efficiency and ensuring the safe movement of passengers and freight.
The corporation explained that investment in human capital remains critical to the success of ongoing railway projects, particularly as the Federal Government continues to modernise the nation’s rail network through new standard gauge lines and the rehabilitation of existing routes.
Industry experts say the addition of trained locomotive pilots will help address manpower shortages within the rail sector while improving the reliability and efficiency of train operations. They also noted that strengthening technical capacity is essential for sustaining long term investments in railway infrastructure.
The expansion of Nigeria’s railway system forms part of broader efforts to improve transportation, reduce logistics costs and stimulate economic growth by providing safer and more efficient alternatives for moving people and goods across the country.
The NRC has continued to implement training and capacity building programmes aimed at developing engineers, technicians and operational personnel to support the modernisation of the rail industry. These initiatives are expected to enhance service quality and improve the corporation’s operational performance.
Stakeholders believe continued investment in railway infrastructure and workforce development will strengthen Nigeria’s transportation sector, facilitate trade and contribute to national economic development by improving connectivity between major commercial centres.
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