The Federal Government has officially set up a top-level Technical Committee to accelerate plans for the proposed Integrated Gas, Power, and High-Speed Rail Project.
The committee was inaugurated on Thursday 9th April at the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), located within the Shehu Shagari Complex in Abuja, with the SGF, George Akume, presiding over the ceremony.
This ambitious project, spearheaded by De-Sadel Nigeria Limited and its financial partner, China Liancai, is considered a groundbreaking private-sector initiative in Nigeria and across West Africa.
It brings together key components such as high-speed rail transport, gas utilization, electricity generation, digital systems, and real estate development under a long-term, renewable 40-year concession structure.
During the inauguration, Akume highlighted the project’s importance to the nation’s economy, noting that it has the potential to drive industrial expansion, create jobs, and strengthen energy supply.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to backing viable investments that can unlock growth in critical sectors.
He also emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and private investors, stating that large-scale projects like this are essential for addressing infrastructure deficits, boosting efficiency, and supporting sustainable economic development.
According to him, the initiative aligns closely with Nigeria’s broader goals of economic advancement, reliable energy, and modern transportation systems.
He added that the committee was carefully selected to ensure a thorough and unbiased review process.
Akume further charged members of the committee to deliver within a strict timeline, adding: “You are expected to submit your findings and recommendations within the time given in line with the Federal Government’s commitment to timely and efficient decision-making.
In his remarks, the President and CEO of De-Sadel Nigeria Limited, Samuel Uko, explained the project’s funding approach and expected benefits.
He pointed out that the development would generate significant employment opportunities, improve connectivity, and promote industrial growth.
He further noted that the project’s integrated design would help lower transportation costs, enhance electricity supply to industrial zones, and create new pathways for trade and investment ultimately positioning Nigeria more strongly within the regional economy.
Uko added that the project is supported by verified funding and is structured to rely on private investment, reducing the financial burden on the government.
The Technical Committee is led by a Director from the Office of the Permanent Secretary (Political and Economic Affairs) and includes representatives from major government institutions such as the Central Bank of Nigeria, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Federal Ministry of Transport, Infrastructure and Concession Regulatory Commission, Debt Management Office, Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, Nigerian Communications Commission, and the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources, among others.
Additional members include representatives from the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, and the Office of the Surveyor-General of the Federation, along with nominees from the project promoters.
