The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has reaffirmed its commitment to improving employee welfare and fostering a safer, more conducive work environment for its staff.
The corporation’s Managing Director, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, made this known during a town hall meeting held in Lagos, according to a statement released on Friday.
Addressing employees, Opeifa said: “Let me assure you that the corporation will continue to prioritise your welfare, but you must appreciate our precarious financial position.
“The fact is that the cost of diesel alone has almost made it impossible to operate our trains.
“We are running at a loss, and we had to resort to borrowings to keep our operations.”
The meeting was attended by members of the NRC’s two labour unions—the Nigerian Union of Railway Workers (NUR) and the Senior Staff Workers Union.
Opeifa acknowledged the dedication of railway workers, noting that their contributions have been instrumental in keeping the corporation operational. He added that employee welfare would receive greater attention once the organisation’s financial condition improves.
He further pledged continued collaboration with the workers’ unions to address outstanding concerns, stressing that under his leadership, industrial action would not be necessary to settle disputes.
The managing director also instructed the Human Resources Department to promptly address issues affecting employees.
Speaking on future plans, Opeifa disclosed that the NRC intends to deploy a high-speed train service between Lagos and Abuja as part of its expansion programme.
“This requires more spaces not only for the construction of the corridor but also for more modern quarters for essential workers.”
He also revealed plans to build a new and befitting headquarters for the corporation along Murtala Muhammed Way in Ebute-Meta, Lagos State.
Earlier, NUR President Innocent Ajiji and President of the Senior Staff Workers Union, Marcel Okeke, commended Opeifa for the reforms introduced at the corporation. They, however, appealed to management to fast-track the payment of the outstanding 95 per cent enhancement benefit due to railway workers.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of certificates of excellence and the NRC Managing Director’s Cash Award to 13 employees in recognition of their exceptional contributions to the corporation’s growth and development in 2025.
