The Plateau State Government has partnered with the Nigerian Railway Corporation to restore and operate the historic Jos–Kuru rail corridor.
The memorandum of understanding was signed by Plateau’s commissioner for transportation, Jatau Davou, and NRC’s managing director, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, at the NRC headquarters in Lagos.
At the event, the Plateau State commissioner expressed deep gratitude to the Minister of Transportation, Hon. Said Ahmed Alkali, and the new NRC Managing Director, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, for their steadfast support despite numerous challenges.
“This is not just about rail transportation; it is about restoring hope and economic prosperity to our people,” Davou noted.
“We appreciate the United Nations for debunking negative narratives about our dear state and reaffirming our commitment to national development.”
It was gathered that he Jos–Kuru rail line, part of the historic Kafanchan–Kuru route, is a key connection between the Western and Eastern rail corridors in Nigeria. It links the Lagos-Kano route in the northwest with the Port Harcourt-Maiduguri line in the east.
Davou emphasized that the restored Jos–Kuru rail line will benefit local communities by providing efficient transportation. It will support farmers and traders by improving cargo movement, reducing costs, and shortening travel times within the state.
Meanwhile, Opeifa stressed the importance of collaboration between federal and state governments in infrastructure development.
He commended the Plateau State government for its proactive approach in partnering with the Nigerian Railway Corporation through the NRC-Railing initiative, recognizing that such cooperation is vital for the successful restoration and operation of the Jos–Kuru rail line.
