In a statement shared on X, NRC Managing Director Dr. Kayode Opeifa expressed his appreciation to Daddy Showkey and emphasized that enhancing the availability of passenger coaches and wagons is a primary focus for his management team.
The NRC's post stated, “@DrOpeifaKayode invited reggae artist John Odafe Asimoh, known as Daddy Showkey, to the Corporation’s headquarters to discuss his recent experience on the Warri-Itakpe Train Service, where he entertained passengers during a brief fueling delay.”
Dr. Opeifa reiterated the corporation's commitment to making train travel the preferred mode of transportation throughout the nation. He highlighted the provision of passenger coaches and wagons as essential to offering a convenient, safe, and affordable mobility option for Nigerians.
The Managing Director expressed gratitude to Daddy Showkey for turning a challenging situation into a positive experience and assured that the management is dedicated to ensuring smooth train operations that will encourage more Nigerians to utilize the service.
He also urged passengers to utilize the customer care portal to provide feedback and suggestions for improved service. Dr. Opeifa commended the public for their support of the corporation and for choosing train services as a reliable and cost-effective means of travel.
“It is gratifying that celebrities such as Daddy Showkey find time to take a ride in our train.”
In his response, Daddy Showkey expressed that while the invitation to meet with the corporation's management was a delightful surprise, it did not entirely catch him off guard. He believes it reinforces his belief that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made a wise decision in appointing Dr. Kayode Opeifa as the Managing Director of the corporation.
He stated, “I have confidence in Dr Kayode Opeifa’s competence in driving positive change in the railway corporation, judging from his past track records as the Commissioner for Transportation in Lagos.”
He remarked that his journey from Warri on the train was a blend of experiences, but it clearly demonstrated the route's potential for profitability, as there is a strong demand from passengers for more frequent train services to better accommodate both travelers and agricultural products.
Nonetheless, Daddy Showkey expressed his excitement about rail travel. He was joined on the trip by his manager, Morrison Ovedja.