By Jamiu Julius ADEBAYOThe inauguration of freight services on the Apapa-Ibadan cargo rail by the President Tinubu-led Federal Government of Nigeria is a significant development for the country’s transportation infrastructure especially as Nigerians are at home and in the diaspora continue to express optimism with the marine and Blue economy dispensation. The cargo rail will enhance the movement of goods and materials between the Apapa port in Lagos and Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State.The introduction of freight services on this rail line has immense and several benefits. Firstly, it will definitely help decongest the roads by reducing the number of trucks transporting goods between these two major cities. Notably, the Lago—Ibadan expressway is the busiest trade route in the entirety of West Africa, a reason it’s been pretty difficult to finish the road project and management has proven to be very difficult. This will not only alleviate traffic congestion but also improve road safety and reduce the wear and tear on the road infrastructure.Secondly, the Apapa-Ibadan cargo rail was designed by the immediate past administration to provide a more efficient and cost-effective means of transporting goods. Rail transportation is generally known for its capacity to handle large volumes of cargo at a time, making it a suitable option for moving heavy and bulky goods. It will also help reduce the cost of transportation, which can have a positive impact on the prices of goods in the market. Are you thinking about a reduction in inflation already? That’s right albeit not immediately. States like Oyo, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Kwara, and Edo are expected to witness increased trade activities and economic boom. It’s looking like #TinuBOOM if we must be real with ourselves. Former Governor of Osun State, H.E Gboyega Oyetola definitely has his work cut out in this regard. Having a mentor and business-minded President will make his work easier. The expected combo between the ministries of Transport and Blue Economy will truly catapult Nigeria into a dispensation that will see the giant of Africa take its rightful place in the comity of nations, economically. AfCTA has berthed at the rightest time. All I see is bountiful economic harvest and incremental in job stats. #JAYJAM
