Abuja–Kaduna rail trip: NIPR delegates call for increased investment in rail
Delegates of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) recently commended ongoing improvements in the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), describing recent developments in rail services as evidence of renewed efficiency and stronger operational focus. The remarks followed a rail journey by hundreds of NIPR members from Abuja to Kaduna aboard the Abuja–Kaduna Train Service (AKTS) […]
L-R: Chairman, NIPR Akwa Ibom State Chapter, Dr Manasseh Umortte, Lagos State Chairman, Dr Samuel Ayetutu, Vice Chairman, Cross River Chapter, Amb. Deborah Grace Awatte (representing Dr Austin Mboso), Edo State Chairman, Dr James Wisdom Abholimen, Bayelsa State Chairman, Dr. Ebowari Wariowei and Dr Mohammed Kudu Abubakar, Fellow, NIPR and Chairman Planning Committee, World Public Relations Conference, holding in Kaduna State, inside the NRC coach…recently.
Delegates of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) recently commended ongoing improvements in the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), describing recent developments in rail services as evidence of renewed efficiency and stronger operational focus.
The remarks followed a rail journey by hundreds of NIPR members from Abuja to Kaduna aboard the Abuja–Kaduna Train Service (AKTS) for the Institute’s Annual Public Relations Week.
The train operated at full capacity, with delegates using the trip not only for transit but also for professional engagement and networking.
Participants from across the country, including several state chapters, had converged on Abuja before proceeding together to Kaduna by rail. They were subsequently conveyed back to Abuja after the conclusion of the week-long programme.
Many said the decision to travel by train was deliberate, aimed at demonstrating confidence in the ongoing reforms within the NRC and supporting efforts to reposition rail transport.
Delegates described the journey as smooth and well-coordinated, noting improvements in service delivery and onboard experience.
They also commended the conduct of NRC personnel, highlighting their professionalism and responsiveness to passengers.
While acknowledging the progress made, the delegates urged the Federal Government to sustain and scale up investment in the railway sector.
They noted that rail transportation requires significant capital, particularly in infrastructure maintenance and rolling stock acquisition, but stressed that the long-term economic and social benefits justify the investment.
Among those on board was the Olumobi of Imobi-Ijesha in Osun State, Oba Dr Jacob Adetayo Haastrup, who praised the appointment of the NRC Managing Director, Dr Kayode Opeifa, describing the leadership as a driving force behind recent improvements in the corporation.
Other notable passengers included the President of the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria, Chief Tony Akiotu; Dr Mohammed Kudu Abubakar, former Director-General of the Nigerian Television Authority and Chairman of the Planning Committee for the forthcoming World Public Relations Conference; and several NIPR state chairmen.
Speaking during the trip, Lagos State NIPR Chairman, Dr. Samuel Ayetutu, said the Institute’s leadership encouraged members to travel together by rail as a show of support for the sector.
He said the move was intended to reinforce confidence in rail transport as a national asset gradually regaining relevance in Nigeria’s mobility framework.
The NRC delegation to the conference was led by its Chief Public Relations Officer, Mr Callistus Unyimadu, alongside the Special Assistant to the Managing Director on Media and Communication, Mr Yinka Aderigbigbe.
The NIPR Annual General Meeting held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Murtala Square, Kaduna recently focused on emerging trends and innovations in public relations practice.
For many delegates, the rail journey itself highlighted the growing acceptance of rail transport and reinforced calls for sustained investment to strengthen the sector’s role in national development.