NIPR members laud rail transformation, back NRC reforms

Members of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) have commended the ongoing transformation in the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), describing recent improvements in rail services as a clear sign of renewed efficiency under the leadership of Dr Kayode Opeifa.

They spoke aboard the Abuja-Kaduna train enroute to their Annual General Meeting holding at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Murtala Square, Kaduna.

The train, which was filled to capacity, had a large number of NIPR members from across the country who used the journey as an opportunity to reconnect and interact ahead of the conference. Many of them had earlier converged in Abuja before proceeding to Kaduna by rail.

Members, particularly from southern chapters, said the decision to travel by train was deliberate, noting that it offered both convenience and an opportunity to support the improvements recorded in the rail sector.

While acknowledging the progress made, the members called on the Federal Government to sustain investment in the railway sector, noting that rail transportation requires significant capital but offers long term economic benefits.

They expressed confidence that increased funding would not only improve operations but also expand connectivity across the country, providing a reliable alternative to road transport.

Among dignitaries on board were the Olumobi of Imobi Ijesha in Osun State, Oba Jacob Adetayo Haastrup, who praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Opeifa as managing director of the NRC, noting that the progress recorded within a short period highlighted the corporation’s potential as a driver of economic development.

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He said the improvements in service delivery demonstrated what could be achieved with capable leadership and a clear vision for the sector.

The Lagos State chapter chairman, Dr Ayetutu, said the choice of rail travel was also influenced by concerns over road safety, adding that the NIPR leadership encouraged members to adopt the train as a practical endorsement of ongoing reforms in the sector.

The conference, which is expected to end on Friday, is designed to expose communication professionals to emerging trends and innovations in public relations practice.

Organisers said the Kaduna meeting would also serve as a prelude to the World Public Relations Conference scheduled to hold in Abuja in November, where practitioners from across the globe are expected to deliberate on the future of the profession in a rapidly changing world.