*Engr. Yinka Idris, Director of Operations at Geofocus Consortium, avers as the country inches closer to realising the High-Speed Bullet Train system, Nigerians can anticipate a future of seamless travel, improved quality of life, and enhanced economic opportunities in the country

Isola Moses | 绿帽献妻

Nigeria鈥檚 transport sector is fast recording a new milestone as the Lagos-Abuja High-Speed Bullet Train gains momentum, reducing travel time between both cities from 12 hours to just two to three hours.

Engr. Yinka Idris, Director of Operations at Geofocus Consortium, noted this in a statement issued Tuesday, February 17, 2025.

Idris described the rail infrastructure project as a milestone in Nigeria鈥檚 development.

The Director of Operations at Geofocus Consortium also applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu鈥檚 administration for prioritising infrastructure and fostering Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) to drive economic growth in the West African country.

Benefits of High-Speed Bullet Train system for Nigerian consumers

Highlighting the inherent advantages of the High-Speed Bullet Train in the rail transportation ecosystem, Engr. Idris explained that the bullet train will provide a faster, safer, and more efficient alternative to road travel.

The initiative, he further said, aligns with Tinubu鈥檚 vision of leveraging private sector expertise to deliver world-class infrastructure without overburdening public finances.

Idris stated: “Currently, travellers between Lagos and Abuja face long hours in traffic, safety concerns, and reduced productivity.”

Besides, the rail project would significantly ease movement, enhance trade, and improve the overall business environment, noted he.

The Director of Operations at Geofocus Consortium disclosed: “As part of the development, ten smart cities with 10,000 housing units each will be built along the rail corridor.

鈥淎n independent power plant will also be constructed to support the train and surrounding infrastructure.”

On employment opportunities, wealth creation

Idris as well projected that the Lagos-Abuja bullet train would create thousands of jobs for Nigerians during construction and after completion.

He said that the initiative aligned with Tinubu鈥檚 commitment to reducing unemployment and fostering economic prosperity through major infrastructure projects.

Idris averred: “With feasibility studies completed and proof of funds secured, the project now awaits approvals from the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) and the Federal Executive Council (FEC) before construction begins.”

According to him, the construction phase is expected to last between 48 and 52 months.

The statement also noted that its completion would promote the project as Nigeria鈥檚 largest-ever PPP-driven initiative and a benchmark for transport infrastructure across Africa.

Beyond transportation, Idris said the bullet train would reduce road congestion, lower carbon emissions, and extend the lifespan of highways.

He said that such would represent a major step toward sustainable and environmentally friendly infrastructure development.

He said: 鈥淎s Nigeria moves closer to realising this dream, citizens can anticipate a future of seamless travel, improved quality of life, and enhanced economic opportunities under President Tinubu鈥檚 leadership.”