The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved contracts for three major rail projects across Lagos, Kano, and Kaduna states, in a move aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s transport infrastructure and boosting economic development, Peak Newspaper reports.
The approval was granted during the council’s meeting held at the State House in Abuja, with the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, confirming that the projects include the Lagos Green Line Rail Project (Phase 1A), the Kano Metro City Rail Project, and the Kaduna State Light Rail Project.
According to the minister, the total value of the approved contracts is approximately $2.99 billion, underscoring the Federal Government’s commitment to large-scale infrastructure investment across key economic hubs.
He explained that the projects were selected due to the strategic importance of Lagos, Kano, and Kaduna as major commercial centres, noting that improved rail systems in these cities would enhance mobility, reduce congestion, and stimulate economic activities.
Oyedele further disclosed that the projects will be financed by the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria, with provisions for counterpart funding arrangements.
The Lagos Green Line project, one of the flagship initiatives, is designed to connect key areas from Marina to the Lekki corridor, while the Kano and Kaduna rail systems are expected to improve transportation and commercial movement across northern Nigeria.
The approvals form part of the government’s broader infrastructure agenda, which prioritises rail development as a sustainable alternative to road transport and a catalyst for inclusive economic growth.
