By: Chief Akinrogun Kelani Ajadi
We respectfully appeal to the Federal Government to consider extending the Lagos–Ibadan Standard Gauge Railway line beyond Ibadan to Ogbomoso or Ilorin, with a direct passage through Ogbomoso.
The recent commencement of commercial operations on the Lagos–Ibadan line represents a landmark achievement in Nigeria’s transportation sector. Building on this milestone, extending the railway to Ogbomoso or Ilorin would further strengthen the nation’s rail infrastructure while creating broad social and economic benefits.
The justification for this extension is both clear and compelling:
Enhanced Connectivity: Linking Lagos, Ibadan, Ogbomoso, and Ilorin would significantly ease the movement of people, goods, and services across the region.
Economic Growth: Reduced travel time and costs would stimulate commerce, attract investments, and boost trade activities.
Tourism and Development: A reliable rail service would promote tourism, improve accessibility, and contribute to balanced regional development.
Ogbomoso’s strategic location makes it an ideal passage point for the extension. As a key commercial hub, the city stands to benefit greatly, with ripple effects on job creation, local businesses, and general economic upliftment.
It is important to recall that the Lagos–Ibadan line is part of the larger Lagos–Kano Standard Gauge Railway project, which seeks to modernize Nigeria’s railway network. The Federal Government has shown commitment to this vision, and we believe extending the line to Ogbomoso or Ilorin is a natural and necessary next step.
We therefore call on our political leaders at all levels to lend their support to this initiative. In particular, we appeal to: Senator Abdulfatai Buhari (Oyo North Senatorial District), Hon. Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala (Member, House of Representatives for Ogbomoso North/Ogbomoso South/Orire Federal Constituency), His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde and other relevant stakeholders
Their advocacy and collective influence would be instrumental in ensuring that this extension becomes a reality within the shortest possible time.
In conclusion, we strongly urge the Federal Government to approve the extension of the Lagos–Ibadan railway line to Ogbomoso or Ilorin through Ogbomoso. Such a project would not only advance Nigeria’s transportation infrastructure but also unlock enormous economic and social opportunities for the region, in line with the government’s broader development agenda.
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