The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has pledged to improve staff welfare and workplace safety in a bid to reduce risks on the nation’s rail network, as it marked the World Day for Safety and Health at Work on Monday in Lagos.
The corporation’s Managing Director, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, made the announcement in a statement, stressing that workers’ wellbeing directly affects passenger safety and the smooth operation of train services across the country.
Speaking through a statement signed by the Chief Public Relations Officer, Mr. Callistus Unyimadu, Opeifa said the move had become necessary owing to growing concerns about stress, fatigue and poor working conditions among railway staff. He noted that these issues could increase safety risks if not properly addressed, adding that the corporation would now treat workers’ mental and emotional wellbeing as a key component of its safety strategy.
Addressing employees nationwide, Opeifa said railway operations are demanding and require shared responsibility to ensure the safe movement of passengers. He explained that workers on major standard-gauge routes – such as Lagos–Ibadan, Abuja–Kaduna and Warri–Itakpe – play critical roles in maintaining safety across the network.
He added that staff on narrow-gauge lines, including Port Harcourt–Aba, Lagos–Kano, Lagos–Ogun and the Jos–Kuru–Bukuru Mass Transit Train, also make important contributions to the system.
“Nigerians trust us to move them safely, and that trust begins with how safe and supported we feel at work,” Opeifa said.
The NRC managing director acknowledged that railway duties come with physical and mental pressure, including long shifts, night work and the need to meet strict schedules. He warned that stress, fatigue and poor communication could lead to serious safety risks.
“A tired driver, a distracted technician or a demoralised station officer is a risk to the entire rail system,” he said.
Opeifa also revealed that workers had raised concerns during internal safety meetings and staff engagement sessions. According to him, issues highlighted include heavy workloads, irregular shifts, poor welfare facilities at remote stations and weak co-operation between departments.
In response, he said the corporation would make psychosocial safety a central part of its broader safety plan and improve working conditions under its 2026 action plan.
He added that NRC management is committed to building a more respectful and inclusive workplace, noting that every worker – from cleaners to senior engineers – plays an important role in railway operations.
Opeifa further announced plans to expand staff welfare and medical services, with greater attention on mental health support. He encouraged workers facing stress or emotional challenges to speak up and seek help through supervisors, union representatives or medical personnel.
“Silence is not safe; workers should speak up early when facing difficulties,” he said.
“Safety on the railway is not just about tracks, signals and protective equipment – it is about people,” he added.
