By Muhammad Mamman
In a bold step toward transforming Nigeria’s infrastructure, De-Sadel Nigeria Limited and China Liancai Petroleum Investment Holdings Limited have secured $60 billion in financial backing for an ambitious high-speed rail and gas development project, officials announced Friday.
The consortium presented proof of funds to Nigeria’s Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, marking a significant milestone for the 4,000-kilometer rail network that will connect major cities, including Lagos, Abuja, Kano, and Port Harcourt. The funding, sourced from the Asian Development Investment Bank, will support the $55 billion first phase of the project, with construction expected to span 36 months.
“This is a historic moment for Nigeria,” said Samuel Uko, CEO of De-Sadel Nigeria Limited. “After a decade of planning, we’ve received nearly 90% of the necessary approvals from this administration. Today, we submitted official proof of funds, paving the way for a high-speed rail system that will revolutionize transportation across the country.”
The rail line, designed to slash travel times and boost economic connectivity, will be rolled out in phases, with sections like Lagos to Lokoja expected to serve passengers as early as the second or third state is completed. “This isn’t just about infrastructure—it’s about transforming lives,” Uko added.
Integral to the project is the development of Nigeria’s gas sector, which will power the high-speed trains. “Gas is the backbone of this initiative,” Uko explained. “To ensure a reliable energy supply, we’re prioritizing gas development alongside the rail network.”
The Federal Government, through the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), has approved the project’s Outline Business Case, signaling strong support for the initiative. With funding secured and approvals in place, Nigeria is poised to join the ranks of nations with cutting-edge rail systems, promising a new era of connectivity and economic growth.
