Opeifa Takes Helm at Nigerian Railway Corporation, Bringing Seasoned Transport Expertise.

Lagos, Nigeria – January 22, 2025 – President Bola Tinubu has appointed Dr. Kayode Opeifa as the substantive Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), marking a new chapter for the nation’s vital transportation network. Opeifa’s appointment, succeeding acting Managing Director Ben Iloanusi, signals a strategic move to leverage his extensive experience in transport administration to revitalize the railway sector.

Dr. Opeifa arrives at the NRC with a distinguished career rooted in public service. His proven track record includes a successful tenure as the Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation under Governor Babatunde Fashola, where he spearheaded significant improvements to the state’s transport infrastructure. He further honed his expertise as the Transport Secretary for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), contributing to the development of Abuja’s transportation system.

Before his NRC appointment, he served as the Managing Director of the Abuja Urban Mass Transit Company Ltd. (AUMTCO) and also as the Vice-Chairman of the Presidential Task Team (PTT) tasked with resolving the notorious Apapa gridlock, demonstrating his ability to tackle complex logistical challenges.

Beyond his administrative roles, Dr. Opeifa brings a strong academic foundation to his new position. He holds a BSc in Biochemistry from the University of Ilorin, along with master’s and PhD degrees. He has also contributed to the academic community as a member of the Lagos State University faculty.

His comprehensive background, encompassing both practical experience and academic rigor, positions him as a strong leader for the NRC. The appointment is seen as a strategic move by the government to inject fresh perspectives and expertise into the revitalization of Nigeria’s railway system.

Industry analysts anticipate that Dr. Opeifa’s leadership will focus on improving operational efficiency, expanding railway infrastructure, and enhancing the overall passenger and freight experience. His appointment reflects the government’s commitment to prioritizing the railway sector as a key driver of economic growth and national development.