A United Kingdom-based railway infrastructure engineer, Bosun Odunlami, has stated that many of the key professionals responsible for the success of London’s transport infrastructure are of Nigerian descent.
Odunlami, a member of the project management team at Balfour Beatty Rails working on the Metronet/BCV rail reconstruction for the Victoria and Central Lines, made the revelation during an interview with Tribune Online on Monday.
He explained that the British system has provided an enabling environment where skilled Nigerians can apply their knowledge, experience, and passion leading to outstanding results in the country’s transport sector.
“Many of the brilliant minds behind London’s transport infrastructure are Nigerians,” he said.
“What the UK has done is to create a system that allows us to effectively utilize our skills and enthusiasm. That’s what makes the difference.”
Odunlami stressed that the same achievements are possible in Nigeria, but only if the right frameworks and systems are in place.
He pointed to the importance of discipline, accountability, and planning — core values he says are central to the UK’s success.
“In the UK, if a train is scheduled to depart at 2:07 p.m., it leaves at exactly that time. If it doesn’t, there is a clear process to investigate the cause. That level of precision and accountability is what we’re missing in Nigeria,” he said.
He criticized the frequent politicization of infrastructure development in Nigeria, warning that without proper planning and continuity, progress will remain limited.
“There are too many abandoned railway projects in Nigeria because there is no coordinated framework. Everyone does as they please, with little focus on long-term goals or accountability,” he said.
Odunlami urged the newly appointed Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr. Kayode Opeifa, to engage Nigerians in the diaspora who are willing to support efforts to transform the country’s railway system.
“There are many Nigerians around the world who are ready to help. My advice to Dr. Opeifa is to reach out and tap into that resource,” he said.
“This should not be about personal gain, but about building infrastructure that truly serves the people.”
He also recommended a five-year development plan for the Nigerian railway sector, calling for strict adherence to ensure measurable progress.
“We need a clear five-year plan outlining where we want the railway system to be. Once it’s set, we must stick to it. That’s the only way to make real, lasting change,” he added.
