The Grand Litora Railway project, a $350 million initiative in Cross River State, Nigeria, has reached a critical juncture with the completion of the topographical mapping for the initial 104-kilometer stretch connecting Calabar and Ugep. This achievement signifies a tangible step forward in realizing the ambitious vision of a 365-kilometer railway network that will ultimately connect all major cities within the state. The presentation of the topographical map, held at the Tinapa Free Zone Resort, underscores the commitment of both the Cross River State government and Rinehooke Investment Ltd, the project’s financial backer, to ensuring the project’s successful completion. The groundbreaking ceremony for the railway, presided over by Governor Bassey Otu, took place earlier this year, marking the official commencement of this transformative infrastructure project.
The Grand Litora Railway is poised to revolutionize transportation and connectivity within Cross River State, offering significant economic and social benefits. The railway line will facilitate the efficient movement of goods and people, reducing travel times and transportation costs. This improved connectivity will stimulate trade and commerce, fostering economic growth and development across the state. The railway will also unlock the immense tourism potential of Cross River State, making it more accessible to both domestic and international visitors. By connecting key tourist destinations like the Tinapa Free Trade Zone and the Obudu Mountain Resort, the railway is expected to boost tourism revenue and create new employment opportunities in the hospitality sector.
Nelson Elemi, Founding Partner and CEO of Rinehooke Investment Ltd, emphasized the far-reaching impact of the Grand Litora Railway project, highlighting its potential to transform Cross River State into a premier tourism destination. He stated that the railway will enhance mobility, stimulate trade, and unlock the state’s unique tourism potential. By providing convenient access to key attractions, the railway is anticipated to attract a significant influx of tourists, boosting the local economy and creating employment opportunities. Elemi reiterated Rinehooke Investment Ltd’s commitment to partnering with the Cross River State government to ensure the project’s successful implementation.
The Grand Litora Railway will significantly impact the transportation landscape of Cross River State, offering a modern and efficient alternative to existing road networks. The reduced travel times and increased accessibility will facilitate greater integration between different regions within the state, promoting economic and social development. Furthermore, the railway will contribute to reducing traffic congestion on existing roads, mitigating environmental impact and improving road safety. The railway’s connectivity will also play a crucial role in supporting the growth of various sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism, by providing a reliable and cost-effective means of transporting goods and services.
The strategic location of the railway’s main terminals in Calabar, the state capital, and Obudu, a renowned tourist destination, underscores the project’s focus on enhancing connectivity and promoting tourism. The three substations planned at Ugep, Ikom, and Ogoja will further extend the railway’s reach, serving as important hubs for passenger and freight transportation. These strategically located stations will ensure that the benefits of the railway are distributed across the state, contributing to regional development and economic growth in these areas. The development of these stations will also stimulate local businesses and create employment opportunities in the surrounding communities.
The Grand Litora Railway project represents a significant investment in the future of Cross River State, laying the foundation for sustainable economic growth and development. The improved transportation infrastructure will enhance connectivity, facilitate trade, and unlock the state’s vast tourism potential. The project is expected to generate numerous economic and social benefits, including job creation, increased tourism revenue, and improved living standards for the people of Cross River State. The collaboration between the state government and Rinehooke Investment Ltd exemplifies a successful public-private partnership model, demonstrating the power of collaborative efforts in driving transformative infrastructure projects.
