The Nigerian Railway Corporation has unveiled a sweeping digital overhaul of its operations, a move aimed at tackling vandalism and plugging revenue leakages across the system. The initiative introduces electronic ticketing to eliminate fraud and ensure transparent revenue collection, while surveillance technology is being deployed to protect rail infrastructure that has long been vulnerable to damage and theft.
Officials say the reforms are not simply about modernization but about safeguarding national assets and restoring public confidence in rail transport. They believe digitisation will deliver safer journeys and more reliable services, marking a turning point for the sector.
Passengers have welcomed the changes, with one commuter in Lagos noting that “electronic ticketing will save us the stress of queuing endlessly and worrying about fake tickets.” Another traveler expressed optimism that the reforms could finally bring Nigerian railways closer to international standards.
Transport analysts describe the reforms as a bold step toward aligning Nigeria’s railway sector with global practices, though they caution that consistent investment and maintenance will be critical to sustaining progress. Civil society groups have also praised the anti-vandalism measures but urged the corporation to pair technology with stronger community engagement to ensure infrastructure protection.
For many Nigerians, the announcement signals hope that the railway system long plagued by inefficiencies, may finally be on track toward becoming a secure, modern, and dependable mode of transport.
