The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has praised the unwavering dedication, resilience, and invaluable contributions of the corporation’s workers to the ongoing transformation of Nigeria’s railway system – NAN.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NRC, Dr Kayode Opeifa, said this in a goodwill message issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Public Relations, Mr Callistus Unyimadu, on Thursday, in Lagos.
Opeifa extended heartfelt congratulations to all staff of the corporation as they joined workers around the world to commemorate Workers’ Day on May 1.
He described NRC workers- fondly known as the “Iron Men”, as the heartbeat of the corporation.
“Everyday, our staff go above and beyond the call of duty to ensure the smooth and safe operations across the country.
“From technical teams to customer service to maintenance crews, your commitment forms the backbone of our progress,”Opeifa said.
He noted that despite facing significant infrastructural and operational challenges, NRC workers had continued to demonstrate professionalism, discipline, and resilience, driven by a deep sense of national duty.
He added that their efforts had positively impacted the railway sector and laid a strong foundation for national development and economic growth.
“I am consistently inspired by the level of professionalism and passion I witness in every corner of this great corporation nationwide.
“You are more than employees – you are the wheels of the Renewed Hope Project, nation-builders, innovators, and agents of change,” he said.
Opeife acknowledged that, even in the face of limited resources evolving technologies and infrastructural demands, the staff had continued to uphold the values and vision of the NRC with courage and excellence.
“As we mark this year’s Workers’ Day, I salute your efforts and reaffirm management’s commitment to continually invest in your welfare, safety, and capacity development,” he said.
He also reiterated the importance of sustained collaboration among all stakeholders in achieving a modern, efficient, and sustainable rail transport system for Nigeria.
He urged railway workers to remain steadfast and innovative as the corporation executed its strategic goals for revitalisation.
He urged the “lron Men” to rededicate themselves to the realisation of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Mandate, which encourages state governments to activate national rail system within their jurisdictions under the “Railing with the State” initiative.
He noted that the Nigerian Railway Corporation remains a critical mobility vehicle for economic integration and development across the nation.