Jos, Plateau State – November 7, 2023
In a significant stride towards rejuvenating the railway transportation system, Plateau State is now the proud recipient of two train locomotives, courtesy of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC).
The arrival of these locomotives marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing collaboration between the Plateau State government and the NRC. Their collective goal is to breathe new life into the state’s railway infrastructure and initiate transport operations.
While this development is undoubtedly a cause for celebration, it comes on the heels of a minor dispute that unfolded in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State. The NRC had initially attempted to transfer some railway coaches from Maiduguri to Jos for refurbishment and eventual deployment in Plateau State’s railway network.
This endeavor to relocate the coaches sparked protests among Maiduguri residents and led to the arrest of several railway corporation personnel by the state government. The allegation was that they were unlawfully moving the coaches out of the state, causing a temporary setback in the Plateau-NRC partnership.
However, Plateau State and the NRC quickly adapted to the situation and found an alternative solution. They successfully transported two locomotives from Zaria and Kafanchan in Kaduna State, positioning them on the tracks in Dogon Karfe, Jos. The next step involves the arrival of coaches from other states, although not from Borno State, as the controversy surrounding their transfer is yet to be resolved.
In a statement, Adamu Abdullahi, the Public Relations Officer of NRC, Jos Station, confirmed the origin of the newly arrived locomotives and their readiness for operation. He also noted that while the situation with Borno State remains unresolved, they remain committed to establishing a robust train transportation system.
This milestone signifies a promising future for railway transportation in Plateau State and reinforces the commitment to modernizing the nation’s railway network. As the railway system gains momentum in Plateau, residents can look forward to improved connectivity and economic opportunities.