Barely days after a strongly-worded writeup that highlighted the growing concerns of passengers on the Abuja-Kaduna train service, it is both reassuring and inspiring to see that the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has not only responded swiftly but has already begun taking visible steps toward addressing those concerns.
This is what responsive leadership looks like.
I, on behalf of the teeming passengers, wish to specially commend the Managing Director of the NRC Dr. Kayode Opeifa and his team for rising to the occasion with dignity, professionalism, and a clear desire to do better.
Let us highlight, one after the other, the swift and commendable steps taken so far:
1. Acknowledging the Complaint Publicly
The NRC didn’t sweep the matter under the carpet. They acknowledged the complaint on the same day it was registered, setting the tone for accountability.
This simple act alone has restored public trust.
2. Fixing the Air Conditioning at Kubwa Departure Hall
As of now, air conditioners at the Kubwa departure hall are already being repaired and reinstalled.
This is a direct and quick response to passenger discomfort and a sign that the voices of ordinary Nigerians are being heard.
3. Inspection of Toilets by the Managing Director
The Managing Director personally inspected the train coaches, confirming which restrooms were working and identifying those that weren’t.
He didn’t delegate it away,he showed leadership by being present and involved.
This kind of hands-on management is rare and worthy of praise.
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4. Identifying Vandalism by Passengers
It was also discovered that some toilets were damaged due to inappropriate use by some passengers.
This is a reminder that passenger responsibility matters, too. Public property must be protected by both the providers and the users.
5. Introduction of a Dedicated Customer Service Desk
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Perhaps the most visionary step yet is the planned introduction of a Customer Service Desk.
This will create a direct, structured channel for feedback, complaints, and service improvement going forward.
It signals a long-term commitment to transparency, engagement, and reform.
A Leadership Model Worth Emulating
The foresight and seriousness shown by the current Managing Director and his staff should serve as a model for other public institutions across the country.
We often complain that public service in Nigeria is unresponsive. But this case proves that when the right leadership is in place, progress is not just possible; it is inevitable.
The Way Forward: Sustaining the Tempo
As we commend the NRC, we also encourage them to:
Sustain the current tempo of response and action.
Ensure the Customer Service Desk is effectively staffed and promoted.
Regularly inspect and maintain facilities.
Establish a culture of listening to passengers, not just transporting them.
We also call on Nigerians to play their part by protecting public facilities and reporting issues responsibly.
This is a win for public service, for passengers, and for Nigeria as a whole.
We look forward to continued improvement, and we urge other agencies to borrow a leaf from this example of prompt action and purposeful leadership.
Thank you to the NRC; may this be the beginning of a new era in our public transport system.
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