By Uloma Peace Okorie
The Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr. Kayode Opeifa, has been honoured for his exceptional leadership and certified contributions to the revitalization of Nigeria’s rail infrastructure.
The recognition was conferred on him during the 7th National Transport Conference of the Chartered Institute of Transport Administration of Nigeria (CIoTA), held in Abuja.
At the event, Dr. Opeifa was officially decorated and presented with the prestigious CORTRANS Seal of Authority, a certification that empowers him to execute accredited transport training across all modes of transportation — road, rail, air, maritime, and pipeline.
According to the organizers, the honour underscores Dr. Opeifa’s visionary leadership, commitment to reform, and practical achievements in advancing the nation’s rail infrastructure and transportation system as a whole.
Under his stewardship, the NRC has recorded remarkable progress in the rehabilitation and modernization of key railway corridors, including the Lagos–Ibadan, Abuja–Kaduna, and Warri–Itakpe lines. His administration has also prioritized the introduction of modern signalling systems, improved safety protocols, and enhanced passenger comfort through better service delivery.
Dr. Opeifa’s tenure has seen increased collaboration with private sector partners and international development agencies aimed at expanding rail capacity and promoting intermodal integration to ease road congestion and support economic growth.
Speaking after receiving the award, Dr. Opeifa expressed deep appreciation to the Chartered Institute of Transport Administration of Nigeria for the honour. He described the recognition as a motivation to do more in transforming Nigeria’s transport sector.
“This recognition goes beyond personal achievement; it reflects the collective effort of the Nigerian Railway Corporation team and all stakeholders working to modernize our transport system. We are committed to building a world-class multimodal transport network that will boost trade, connectivity, and national development,” he said.
The 7th National Transport Conference brought together policymakers, industry experts, and stakeholders to deliberate on innovations and strategies for sustainable mobility and infrastructure growth in Nigeria.
With this recognition, Dr. Kayode Opeifa joins other distinguished professionals certified under CORTRANS, further solidifying his reputation as a leading voice in transport administration and national development.