2022 STUDY TRIPS TO WESTERN DISTRICT OF THE NIGERIAN RAILWAY CORPORATION IBADAN BY STUDENTS IN THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORT PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT,
THE OKE-OGUN POLYTECHNIC, SAKI
As part of their academic curriculum, students from the Department of Transport Planning and Management at The Oke-Ogun Polytechnic, Saki, Oyo State, embarked on a full-day study trip to the Western District of the Nigerian Railway Corporation in Ibadan on August 8, 2022. Under the guidance of Mr. Akanmu Ademola CMILT, the Head of Department, and with assistance from Mr. Onifade Temitope, this excursion presented an exceptional opportunity for the students to expand their knowledge beyond the confines of the traditional classroom. The students were warmly welcomed by the top management of the Corporation at the District Headquarters in Dugbe, Ibadan, marking the commencement of an immersive exploration into Nigeria’s rich railway heritage.
Upon arrival at the Ibadan railway station, the students were greeted with the awe-inspiring sight of majestic locomotives and the bustling activities of the narrow gauge railway. The enthusiastic NRC staff created a conducive environment for learning and engagement, setting the stage for an educational and captivating experience. The trip commenced with an enthralling presentation on the history and significance of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, which took place at the Dugbe headquarters. The students were captivated as they delved into the inception of the railway system in Nigeria and its crucial role in the nation’s development, connecting various regions and facilitating trade and transportation.
During the study trip, the students were provided with the opportunity to explore vintage locomotives, examine historical artifacts, and gain valuable insights into the engineering marvels that have shaped Nigeria’s extensive rail network. They had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the technological advancements and meticulous craftsmanship involved in the construction and maintenance of the railway infrastructure. Among the highlights of the trip was an informative guided tour of the sprawling railway facilities, which offered the students a comprehensive understanding of the various aspects of railway operations.
No railway study trip would be complete without a memorable train ride, and the students eagerly boarded a passenger train on the new standard gauge Lagos/Ibadan corridor. Their journey commenced from Obafemi Awolowo Station in Moniya, Ibadan, and concluded at Professor Wole Soyinka Station in Abeokuta. As the train traversed picturesque landscapes, the students experienced the thrill of being transported by this modern standard gauge mode of transportation. The journey not only showcased the efficiency and safety measures implemented by the NRC but also allowed the students to witness the practical application of their classroom learnings in a real-world context.
As the study trip drew to a close, the students bid farewell to the Nigerian Railway Corporation in Ibadan, carrying with them enduring memories and invaluable insights. Inspired by their experiences, they left with a renewed passion to further explore the world of railways and contribute to the ongoing development of their country. The Management of The Oke-Ogun Polytechnic, Saki extends its appreciation to the Nigerian Railway Corporation for warmly welcoming its students and providing them access to both the narrow and standard gauge facilities
Overall, this student study trip to the Nigerian Railway Corporation in Ibadan provided a remarkable opportunity for the students to deepen their understanding of Nigeria’s railway heritage and gain practical knowledge that complements their academic studies.
