NRC begins recertification for Red Line operational license
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has commenced the recertification process for the Lagos Rail Mass Transit Red Line, marking a key step toward securing a full operational license for the
- By Ntakobong Otongaran
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has commenced the recertification process for the Lagos Rail Mass Transit Red Line, marking a key step toward securing a full operational license for the urban rail system.
The exercise followed the earlier issuance of a one year provisional license and is aimed at transitioning the corridor to a substantive approval status.
A high level NRC delegation inspected critical infrastructure along the corridor, with visits to the Oyingbo and Ikeja stations to evaluate operational standards, safety systems and service readiness.
The delegation was led by the Head of Business Process Efficiency and Due Diligence, Mr Oyekunle Oyewole. Other members included the Deputy Director of Operations, Mr Adegoke Omojola, and Assistant Director of Legal Services, Barr N Nnorom.
They were received by officials of the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority rail team, including the Head of Rail Operations, Engr Joseph Akinpelu, alongside Mr Akinwale Akintola and Mr Olufemi Odusina.
Officials said the recertification was a routine regulatory requirement and not an audit triggered by deficiencies, explaining that it forms part of standard procedures for upgrading from provisional to full operational licensing.
According to the NRC team, the process is designed to ensure that the Red Line continues to meet prescribed safety benchmarks and operational standards required for sustainable rail transport.
The development is significant for Lagos, where authorities have increasingly relied on rail infrastructure to ease pressure on road networks and improve urban mobility.
The Red Line currently operates nine passenger trips daily. However, officials indicated that service frequency would increase substantially after recertification, especially with the planned deployment of additional rolling stock.
The expected scale up is projected to boost passenger capacity and strengthen the role of rail transport in the state’s broader mobility strategy.
