The long-anticipated standard gauge rail project that will connect Lagos and Ibadan, is set to embark on its inaugural journey come mid-September 2020. This 1.6 billion dollar project has seen several delays and the recent complications from COVID-19 has not helped the launch.
This will be a critical link that will help to transport Nigerians to and from two major cities in relative safety and comfort, and it will also enable more development and growth in its path and will alter the Nigerian real estate sector in a good way.
The 156km route would hold around 10 stations that are in different levels of development and completion at this time, the stations proposed are: Apapa, EBJ, Agege, Agbado, Kajola, Papalanto, Abeokuta, Olodo, Omi-Adio, and Ibadan.
In a recent inspection and tour of the railcars and stations, the Minister of Transportation, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, and the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed were greeted by scores of adoring and cheering citizens, who were excited about the projects progress and impending launch.
The duo took rides to several stops and inspected the various coaches and stations along the way, and seemed to enjoy the attention and praise they were receiving from the local residents.
This endeavor should revitalize the transportation sector and the real estate market because the mobility of residents enhances their ability to gain employment and live in housing that suits their needs.
When the trains roll down the tracks this September, there are plans for 16 daily trips with more than 24 modern train cars.
