The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has introduced a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to guide cleaning operations across its train coaches and railway stations, as part of efforts to improve passenger safety, hygiene and overall travel experience.
The new SOP was unveiled on Wednesday at a workshop held at the corporation’s headquarters in Lagos, where cleaning service providers from across the country were trained on updated standards and procedures.
Speaking at the event, NRC Managing Director, Kayode Opeifa, said the initiative reflects a shift in how cleaning is perceived within modern rail systems, describing it as a critical component of service delivery rather than a routine task.
He emphasised that maintaining high sanitation standards directly affects passenger confidence, safety and operational efficiency.
According to him, the workshop organised by the corporation’s Business Processes, Efficiency and Due Diligence (BuPED) unit was designed to establish uniform cleaning standards and introduce quality control measures for all operators working with the NRC.
Cleanliness as Central to Passenger Experience
“Cleanliness is central to the passenger experience. Beyond punctuality, the condition of our stations and coaches plays a major role in how the public perceives our services,” he said.
Opeifa added that the operational manual distributed at the training should serve as a daily guide for contractors, ensuring consistency and professionalism across all NRC facilities nationwide.
He also urged service providers to align with global best practices, noting that improved standards are essential if Nigeria’s rail system is to compete internationally.
Opportunities in Rail Expansion
The NRC boss further highlighted emerging opportunities in the sector, pointing to ongoing rail expansion projects across the country. He said contractors who meet current standards would be well positioned to participate in managing new rail corridors as they become operational.
Also speaking, BuPED Director, Oyekunle Oyewole, said all 24 cleaning service providers who attended the workshop are expected to fully comply with the newly introduced guidelines.
He added that future performance evaluations would be strictly tied to adherence to the SOP, stressing that the department would continue to support contractors to achieve improved efficiency and service delivery.
The NRC said the initiative forms part of its broader commitment to raising operational standards and enhancing the overall quality of rail transport services in Nigeria.
