Federal Government has inaugurated an inter-agency committee to thoroughly assess the feasibility of a massive $200 billion gas-powered high-speed rail project spanning approximately 4,000 kilometres across Nigeria.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, performed the inauguration in Abuja on Thursday, April 9, 2026.
He stated that the committee’s primary task is to evaluate the credibility of the proposal submitted by a consortium led by De-Sadel Nigeria Limited in partnership with China Liancai Petroleum Investment Holdings Limited.
The ambitious project aims to connect major economic corridors including Lagos, Abuja, Kano, and Port Harcourt.
It is designed as a multi-phase programme that will integrate rail infrastructure with gas development, power generation, and transmission.
Akume emphasised that a project of this magnitude requires rigorous scrutiny to ensure it aligns with national priorities, is technically sound, financially viable, and compliant with Nigeria’s legal and regulatory frameworks.
“The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation has received inputs from security, financial intelligence, and regulatory agencies, which underscored the need for a coordinated review,” he said.
The committee will focus on several critical areas, including:
Financial verification and proof of funds
Assessment of the technical, legal, and environmental aspects
Examination of the financing model and competence of technical partners
Evaluation of regulatory compliance, security risks, and governance structures for the proposed Public-Private Partnership (PPP)
Identification of potential national security, financial crime, and reputational risks, along with mitigation measures.
Akume added that the panel is expected to submit an objective, evidence-based report that will guide the Federal Government’s final decision on whether to proceed with the project.
The development comes as the government continues efforts to modernise Nigeria’s transportation infrastructure while ensuring transparency and value for money in large-scale projects.
