COSCO Shipping Company is making strides in enhancing rail cargo movement by successfully transporting agricultural products from Kano to the Lagos Port Complex Apapa.
The initial batch of containers left Dala Inland Dry Port in Kano on July 7, 2024, and reached Apapa on July 17. This milestone was marked by a reception from COSCO Shipping officials, the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), and experts from Temerity International, who played a key role in the operation.
Michael Echezona, COSCO Shipping Nigeria’s Head of Logistics, praised the joint efforts of all stakeholders involved. He highlighted that this achievement could significantly boost investor confidence in Nigeria’s rail and logistics infrastructure.
stressed the need for enhanced collaboration and immediate action from the Federal Ministry of Transportation to expedite the development of the standard gauge line. This, he believes, would rejuvenate the Nigerian economy, solidify the nation’s position as a regional economic hub, and improve the distribution of goods.
Temi Ogunniyi, Managing Partner at Temerity International Experts, commended the NRC’s contributions and called for increased cooperation to improve efficiency and security. He pointed out that rail transport from the northern regions would not only facilitate international trade for local and neighboring importers and exporters but also diversify Nigeria’s economy and generate foreign exchange through non-oil exports.
Ogunniyi emphasized that rail transport, with its capacity for large volumes and efficiency over long distances, is an ideal choice for intermodal transport, offering reliability and cost benefits while reducing delays from traffic or weather conditions.
