The Plateau State Government has entered into a landmark partnership with the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) to reopen the long-dormant Jos–Kuru rail line, marking a significant step towards revitalising the region’s transport infrastructure and boosting economic activity. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), formalised on Monday, was signed on behalf of Governor Caleb Mutfwang by the Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Jatau Davou, alongside the NRC’s Managing Director, Dr Kayode Opeifa.
This development is poised to improve mobility and commercial exchange within Plateau and surrounding states. Officials say the revived rail link, part of the broader Kafanchan–Kuru corridor, will strengthen connections between Nigeria’s Western and Eastern rail networks, offering better access to underserved rural communities. The rail line will initially operate on a narrow-gauge system, with a future transition to standard gauge planned under the national railway modernisation scheme. However, a timeline for this upgrade has yet to be disclosed.
The Plateau Government emphasised that the restored line would not only ease the burden of transport costs but also streamline cargo movement, particularly benefiting local farmers and traders. The project is also expected to generate employment and invigorate small businesses, with opportunities emerging in logistics, advertising, and entertainment tied to rail transport.
Dr Opeifa lauded the Plateau administration’s commitment to restoring Nigeria’s railway heritage and underlined the importance of collaboration between state and federal authorities. He described the agreement as a demonstration of governance that prioritises public benefit over politics.
“We are not just bringing trains back; we are restoring dignity, unlocking economic strength, and fostering national unity,” Opeifa stated. He also confirmed that a dedicated business manager would be appointed to oversee rail operations in Plateau State, ensuring efficiency and responsiveness to local needs.
The NRC boss further revealed that similar rail restoration projects are in the pipeline for other regions, including Borno, Aba, and Port Harcourt, as part of broader efforts to rejuvenate rail transport nationwide.