NIGERIA: Traxport Rail Services is developing plans to use modern gas-fuelled locomotives and advanced operations management tools to launch open access freight trains transporting LNG in the rail corridor linking the southern port of Lagos with the northern industrial city of Kano.
Investors in Traxport include DeWiz Engineering Services Ltd, part of CET Group which has investments in power generation, engineering services and is involved in the development of an LNG plant at Ogbele in Rivers State.
Traxport has signed a technical support and investment agreement with Belgium-based international railway management company Vecturis, which it said had a proven track record of locomotive operations, infrastructure management and technology integration in emerging markets.
Traxport Chairman Emeka Ndu said ‘Vecturis’ wealth of experience in similar markets will enable us to leapfrog operational challenges and fast-track the delivery of modern, sustainable freight rail solutions for Nigeria’.
LNG fuel
Earlier this year Traxport visited Belgian engine manufacturer ABC and Chinese rolling stock supplier CRRC Ziyang to explore advanced locomotive technologies and strengthen strategic partnerships, supported by UK rail consultant Karl Watts.
Traxport said using LNG as the primary fuel for its planned trains would represent a decisive shift away from diesel powered road transport, offering environmental benefits as well as a more secure, scalable and cost-effective alternative for bulk freight logistics.
Vecturis said Traxport’s plans would a safer, more efficient, and sustainable transport system for Nigeria, with reduced road congestion and lower carbon emissions.
Nigerian expertise
Vecturis has undertaken rail projects in countries including DR Congo, Mozambique, Cameroon and Madagascar. It was the designated operator for a proposed concession of Nigeria’s 1 067 mm gauge railway network to a General Electric-led consortium. Although the concession was ultimately aborted, this provided it with first-hand insight into Nigeria’s rail infrastructure, regulatory landscape and market dynamics.
Vecturis CEO Eric Peiffer said ‘Nigeria has one of the most promising rail freight markets in Africa, and our previous engagement in the sector has given us a clear understanding of its opportunities and challenges. By combining our technical expertise with Traxport’s vision and local drive, we believe we can deliver a step-change in performance, reliability, and sustainability for Nigerian freight rail.’
