Port Harcourt-Aba Railway Reopens for Passenger Services After Major Rehabilitation

The Federal Government has officially launched passenger operations on the Port Harcourt-Aba railway line, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing 1,443km Port-Harcourt-Maiduguri narrow gauge rail project. This step is expected to boost trade, improve mobility, and enhance connectivity between the southern and north-eastern parts of the country.

The resumption of passenger services on the rehabilitated 62km Port Harcourt-Aba rail corridor was inaugurated by the Minister of Transportation, Sen. Said Alkali, who took a ceremonial train ride from Port Harcourt to Aba. He indicated that the Ministry of Transportation is in discussions with an investor to convert diesel locomotives to CNG, aiming to reduce transportation costs.

“This inauguration signals the start of passenger train services along this important corridor,” Sen. Alkali stated. “It is part of the government’s commitment to enhance the railway network and foster economic growth.”

The Minister expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support and commitment to advancing the nation’s transportation infrastructure. “We give God the glory that we are here to commission the train service from Port Harcourt to Aba,” he said. He highlighted that the Eastern narrow gauge railway covers five geopolitical zones, demonstrating its strategic importance for national integration.

The railway will eventually connect to Enugu and be linked to Onne and Port Harcourt ports, fostering greater commerce and connectivity. The Minister’s emphasis on the significance of this corridor underscores the broader vision for railway expansion in Nigeria, with hopes that this rehabilitation project will invigorate transportation in the region.

Passenger train services between Port Harcourt and Aba are now operational, opening new opportunities for commuters and businesses in the area.