The Cross River State government, in partnership with Rinehooke Ltd, has unveiled plans to construct the $350 million (N541 billion) Grand Litora Railway project. This initiative aims to connect all major cities in the state and has reached a significant milestone with the presentation of the topographical mapping for the initial 104km route from Calabar to Ugep.

During the groundbreaking ceremony for the 365km railway line, Governor Bassey Otu emphasized the project’s importance as a unifying infrastructure that will link the southern and northern regions of Cross River State, fostering economic growth and enhancing connectivity.

The railway project, supported by Rinehooke Ltd—a company focused on driving innovation and developing critical infrastructure—will feature main terminals in Calabar and Obudu, along with three sub-stations in Ugep, Ikom, and Ogoja.

Nelson Elemi, Founding Partner and CEO of Rinehook Investment Ltd, highlighted the railway’s potential to transform tourism and stimulate regional development. He stated, “The Grand Litora Railway represents a bold vision for the future of Cross River State and Nigeria at large. By linking major towns and cities in Cross River, this railway will not only enhance mobility and stimulate trade but also open up our state’s unparalleled tourism potential to the world.”

Elemi further noted that the project exemplifies a strategic partnership between the Cross River State government and Rinehooke Ltd, aimed at delivering world-class infrastructure that will unlock the state’s economic potential, attract investments, and promote sustainable tourism development.