On Tuesday, March 18, 2025, representatives from Legacy 1995 conducted a crucial courtesy visit to the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr. Kayode Opeifa, to address critical issues concerning the preservation of Nigeria’s invaluable railway heritage and to explore avenues for strengthened collaboration.
The visit, attended by a delegation from Legacy 1995, led by the retired postmaster and President of LEGACY1995, Taiye Olaniyi, provided a platform for the organization to voice pressing concerns regarding the safeguarding of historical railway sites and artifacts.
Legacy 1995 highlighted several urgent matters requiring the NRC’s attention including:
Ongoing Challenges and Asset Looting: The delegation expressed concern regarding the persistent challenges related to security and the alarming instances of looting and vandalism targeting railway assets.
Urgent Canal Clearing: The critical need for immediate clearing of the canal behind Jaekel House and in front of Ilukwe House was emphasized, citing environmental preservation and structural protection as paramount.
Encroachment and Trespassing: The delegation raised alarm over the encroachment and trespassing by squatters on designated historical monuments, notably the Old Running Shed and its surrounding areas, posing a severe threat to their integrity.
Undocumented Movement of Museum Items and Encroachment of allotted Historic Buildings: The unauthorized or undocumented movement of items intended for the railway museum was discussed, stressing the importance of proper inventory and secure storage. Also, some spaces belonging to the Museum has faced encroachment.
The Managing Director of the NRC responded constructively to the concerns raised, demonstrating a commitment to addressing these critical issues. He acknowledged the importance of ongoing communication and collaboration between the NRC and Legacy 1995.
He also expressed a strong commitment to supporting all laudable projects initiated by Legacy 1995 for the preservation of Nigeria’s railway heritage, pledging to investigate the issues raised and work towards effective solutions.
The courtesy visit proved to be a significant step in fostering a productive relationship between Legacy 1995 and the NRC. Legacy 1995 is encouraged by the Managing Director’s positive response and looks forward to a collaborative partnership to protect and preserve Nigeria’s railway heritage.
