The lawmaker representing Ovia Federal Constituency, Omosede Igbinedion, has urged the Federal Ministry of Transportation and the Nigerian Railway Corporation to give priority to the construction of a Benin–Lagos railway corridor as part of the country’s national transport master plan.
Igbinedion said the proposed Lagos–Benin rail line would significantly enhance commercial activities, improve mobility and strengthen security along what she described as a “critical economic route.”
While presenting a motion during plenary, the lawmaker noted that the lack of a rail transport option along the busy corridor continues to place pressure on the economy, threaten the safety of travelers, slow down supply chains and hinder regional economic integration.
She also raised concerns about persistent insecurity along the route, which she said has discouraged interstate travel and disrupted commercial activities, particularly affecting women, traders, students and farmers who transport agricultural produce.
She said: “Developing a modern railway line between Benin and Lagos will provide a safer, faster and more reliable alternative for commuters and businesses, while also reducing pressure on the road network.
“Investment in railway infrastructure is not only an economic strategy, but also a national security imperative, especially in vulnerable and high traffic regions.
“There is need to encourage the security components such as surveillance systems. Railway police and secured terminals should be integrated into the design of the railway infrastructure.”
