NRC rolls out new cleaning standards to boost passenger comfort

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has taken a significant step toward enhancing passenger comfort and safety with the introduction of a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for train cleaning services across the country. The initiative, unveiled at a stakeholders’ workshop held at the Corporation’s headquarters in Lagos recently is aimed at standardising janitorial practices onboard […]

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has taken a significant step toward enhancing passenger comfort and safety with the introduction of a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for train cleaning services across the country.

The initiative, unveiled at a stakeholders’ workshop held at the Corporation’s headquarters in Lagos recently is aimed at standardising janitorial practices onboard train coaches and at railway stations nationwide.

The workshop brought together cleaning service providers from across NRC’s operational corridors to align them with the new standards.

Speaking at the event, the Managing Director of the NRC, Kayode Opeifa, emphasised that cleanliness in modern rail transport is no longer a routine responsibility but a critical component of service delivery.

According to him, the new SOP is designed to improve not just hygiene, but also passenger confidence, safety, and overall travel experience.

He noted that the success of any rail system is measured beyond punctuality, stressing that the condition of stations and coaches plays a key role in shaping public perception. He added that passengers deserve clean, comfortable and welcoming environments, which are essential for sustaining trust in the railway system.

The workshop, organised by the Corporation’s Business Processes, Efficiency and Due Diligence (BuPED) Desk, focused on establishing uniform standards and introducing quality control cleaning codes for all operators engaged by the NRC. Participants were also issued operational manuals to guide their daily activities and ensure consistency across all service locations.

Opeifa further explained that the initiative forms part of a broader reform agenda aimed at positioning the NRC as a globally competitive rail service provider. He urged contractors to strictly comply with the new guidelines, noting that performance evaluations going forward would be based on adherence to the SOP.

He also highlighted emerging opportunities within the railway sector, citing ongoing and proposed rail expansion projects across the country. These, he said, would create a growing ecosystem where service providers who demonstrate professionalism and efficiency would continue to play vital roles.

In his remarks, the Director of BuPED, Oyekunle Oyewole, stated that all participating service providers are expected to fully comply with the new operational standards.

He added that the department would continue to provide guidance and support to ensure improved service delivery across the board.

The introduction of the SOP marks another milestone in the NRC’s ongoing efforts to modernise its operations, improve passenger experience, and reinforce its commitment to safety, efficiency and quality service delivery nationwide.