African $60 Billion High-Speed Rail Project Takes Shape

Published: Wednesday, August 13, 2025 at 4:19 pm

Nigeria's $60 Billion High-Speed Rail Project Advances

A massive infrastructure project in Nigeria, estimated to cost $60 billion, is moving forward with the recent submission of a proposal to the government. The project, spearheaded by the De-Sadel Consortium in collaboration with the Nigerian government, aims to construct a high-speed rail network spanning approximately 2,500 miles.

The project's funding is slated to come from the Asian Development Investment Bank, an international development institution backed by China. The initial phase of the project will focus on connecting four major cities: Lagos, Abuja, Kano, and Port Harcourt.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, acknowledged the importance of international investment, particularly from China, while emphasizing the need for thorough scrutiny of the project's financial viability and timelines. He stated that the government is committed to ensuring the project's reliability and benefit to all partners.

Samuel Uko, CEO of the De-Sadel Consortium, expressed optimism about the project's progress, highlighting the recent approvals received from the current administration. He confirmed the submission of the official proof of funds for the first phase of the project. If approved, the initial phase, costing $55 billion, is expected to begin in the coming years. A detailed timeline for the project's completion has not yet been released.

BNN's Perspective:

The proposed high-speed rail project represents a significant investment in Nigeria's infrastructure and could potentially boost economic growth. While the reliance on foreign investment, particularly from China, raises questions about long-term sustainability and potential geopolitical implications, the project's potential to improve connectivity and facilitate trade is undeniable. Careful oversight and adherence to international best practices are crucial to ensure the project's success and benefit all stakeholders.

Keywords: Nigeria, high-speed rail, infrastructure, project, $60 billion, Asian Development Investment Bank, China, Lagos, Abuja, Kano, Port Harcourt, De-Sadel Consortium, investment, transportation, economy, development

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