Saraki Signs Bill That Allows Private To Participate In Railway Sector After 61 Years

Below is what Saraki shared on social media...…


Private Sector Can Now participate in Nigerian Railway Industry

This morning, I signed the Senate’s version of the Repeal and Re-enactment of the Nigerian Railway Corporation Act of 1955. This re-enactment, which is coming nearly 61 years after the act first came into existence, is significant because it provides a legislative framework that opens up Nigeria’s railway system to private sector participation.

The changes in the law are also aimed at promoting competition in the railway system - in order to make the service more affordable, effective and accessible to every single Nigerian. Furthermore, the framework which the Senate has passed places emphasis on the maintenance culture of our rail systems.

I would like to commend the Senate Committee on Land Transport, led by Senator Gbenga Ashafa for the thorough job that they did in putting together the final version of the Bill.

I am equally delighted that the Nigerian Society of Engineers are in support of this Bill, as a message I received from the Chairman of the Society earlier today expressed that the 8th Senate has achieved a feat that “seemed like an impossibility for more than 40 years.”

Moving forward, it is my hope that this Bill, which was a key focus at the breakout session on Land Infrastructure at the National Assembly Business Environment Roundtable (NASSBER) earlier this year, will be given expedited passage in the House of Representatives and signed into law by Mr. President for the benefit of Nigerians across the country.

Senator Abubakar Bukola Saraki