On the historic day marking the maiden test run of Nigeria’s Standard Gauge Railway from Ebute Meta through Agbado Station to Abeokuta, a series of unforeseen events unfolded, highlighting both logistical challenges and moments of personal significance.
Initially, there was a communication gap regarding the train’s departure plan. I was under the impression that the train would depart directly from Ebute Meta station in Lagos straight to Abeokuta, wherein, the former Vice President Professor Yemi was expected to be on board but, couldn't make it.
However, I later learned that the management of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) had, in response to my appeal, agreed to include a stopover at Agbado Railway Station. My appeal was motivated by the fact that approximately 70% of the corridor from Lagos to Abeokuta falls within my Federal Constituency of Ifo/Ewekoro, emphasizing the importance of my involvement.
On that day, the weather was dire—heavy rain, often described as “cats and dogs,” compounded by heavy traffic along the route from Sango, where I commenced my journey, to Agbado. Despite the challenging conditions, I was constantly contacted by my colleague - Madam Cecil with other Easy Life Family Members waiting at the station, the Managing Director of NRC, who kept informing me that the train’s delay was due to my late arrival.
Unknown to me, many eminent personalities had already boarded the train, including the former governor of Ogun State, His Excellency SIA, HRM Kabiyesi Alake, other Kabiyesis, and other dignitaries. The most startling development occurred when the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, made an announcement via the public address system that the train would not depart until a VIP they were expecting arrived.
As I finally arrived at Agbado Station, accompanied by my brother Hon. Fola Salami to board the train, the NRC MD announced to everyone present that “our VIP is on board,” and promptly ordered the train to move. I was ushered into the VIP coach, sitting just beside our Kabiyesi: The Alake of Egbaland.
Meanwhile, many onboard, including SIA, were looking around, trying to identify the VIP—only to realize that the VIP was me.
This pivotal role I played in ensuring the train’s departure amidst the logistical and communication challenges became a celebrated moment, symbolizing my contribution to bringing Nigeria’s dream of a modern Standard Gauge Railway closer to reality. The events of that day marked a significant milestone, not only for Nigeria’s infrastructural development but also for my personal journey in advocating for regional and national progress.
