The Nigeria Railway Corporation, (NRC), has signaled a new era in railway transportation with the impending re-launch of the Kano-Lagos express train service, known as the 2LL.
Representative of the Railway District Manager, North Western District, Mr Obafunso Suleimon said after extensive refurbishment and successful test runs, the rail link is poised to reconnect two of Nigeria’s economic powerhouses.
NRC certified the readiness of the Minna-Kaduna-Kano Railway Tracks following the Government’s repair works on the damaged portions, adding that the restoration process was a significant milestone.
The Railway Corporation said passengers can expect a luxurious travel experience aboard the 2LL, which has received a full makeover.
“The coaches have been modernised with top-notch facilities aimed at providing comfort and style for travelers. The train’s overnight stay in Minna before proceeding to Lagos was part of the final preparations to assure the safety and reliability of the Minna-Lagos Railway Tracks.”
“We are thrilled by the Federal Government’s commitment, as reflected in the efforts of the Honorable Minister of Transportation, Sen Said Alkali, and the NRC’s Managing Director, Engineer Fidet Okheria, to reinvigorate the railway system for the benefit of the Nigerian populace,” said Engineer Suleiman.
The express train’s return is a testament to the government’s dedication to improving the nation’s transportation infrastructure.
The 2LL Kano-Lagos train, which had been out of service for approximately two years due to various challenges faced by the Railway Authority, is set to come back under the progressive leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. The train’s return has ignited a sense of celebration among railway staff and potential passengers, who have long awaited this revival.
Mr Suleimon said with the official commencement date for the Kano-Lagos train services on the horizon, the NRC is preparing to welcome passengers back to a transformed rail experience that promises to blend historical significance with contemporary luxury.
Dominica Nwabufo
