By Seun Ibiyemi
The Federal Government has inaugurated a high-level technical committee to review a proposed $200 billion integrated infrastructure project aimed at transforming Nigeria’s energy and transportation sectors.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, who inaugurated the committee, said the initiative combines gas development, power generation and transmission, as well as a nationwide high-speed rail system.
Akume described the project as a multi-phase programme designed to boost economic growth, strengthen energy security and enhance national integration.
He noted that the plan includes the construction of a 4,000-kilometre high-speed rail network linking major economic hubs such as Lagos, Abuja, Kano and Port Harcourt.
“The project has the potential to significantly transform Nigeria’s transport infrastructure, stimulate industrial growth and deepen national integration,” Akume said.
He explained that the committee’s mandate includes reviewing all relevant documentation, verifying claims by project proponents, and assessing the technical, legal and environmental viability of the proposal.
The panel is also expected to provide objective, evidence-based recommendations to guide government decision-making.
Akume urged members to carry out their assignment with professionalism and patriotism, stressing the need for broad stakeholder engagement and adherence to international best practices.
The committee is chaired by the Permanent Secretary, Political and Economic Affairs Office, and includes representatives from key ministries and agencies such as the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission, Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, Central Bank of Nigeria, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Department of State Services and the Debt Management Office, among others.
Earlier, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of De-Sadel Nigeria Limited, Samuel Ukoh, described the project as a transformative initiative that would significantly reduce travel time across the country.
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Ukoh said the proposed 4,000km dual-track rail system is expected to cut inter-city travel time by up to 75 per cent while connecting all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
He added that the project would also generate about 3,500 megawatts of power to support the high-speed rail network.
The Federal Government said the outcome of the committee’s review would guide its final decision on the ambitious project.
