POLITICS OF RAILWAY TRANSPORT IN NIGERIA: PROBLEM AND PROSPECTS

Abstract

This study examined Politics of railway transport in Nigeria: problem and prospects. Through a critique of past railways development projects and policies, this paper was able to identify the principal factors responsible for its intangible contributions to the socio-economic development of Nigeria. It further highlighted the role(s) politics of policies inconsistency and somersault plays, to the detriment of realization of a vibrant railway system in Nigeria. The findings revealed that discontinuity and incoherence in policy implementation by successful governments, policy reversal as well as uncoordinated national transport policy goal and objectives as clogs in the wheel of progress of railways development in Nigeria. In conclusion, the paper hinged the rapid development of the rail industry in Nigeria on institutional paradigm shift, whereby the rail authority will enjoy a reasonable level of autonomy in decision making, finance and investment in rail operations, infrastructure supply and technological advancement in Nigeria. World over, rail transport system is generally considered the best platform for massive haulage of goods and services on land. This study assessed the challenges and prospects of the New Nigeria Railway Corporation. Data was obtained from secondary sources (books, journals, periodicals, magazines, newspapers, the internet, etc.). Data analysis was by content analysis. Results revealed that although Nigerians stand to benefit from the return of the rail transportation, the system faces immense challenges despite its prospects. The study suggested that government should address such challenges headlong to avoid the past experience in which the corporation grounded.