Lagos to Kano by Rail: How Much Does It Cost to Move Container in 2026? By Okwo romeon|Abuja
For importers in Kano, Kaduna and Abuja, moving containers from Apapa and Tin Can to the North by road costs more than the sea freight from China. In 2026, the Lagos-Kano Standard Gauge rail is the game changer. Nigeria Anchorage breaks down the real cost. How Much Does It Cost by Road vs Rail in 2026? ( By Road (Apapa to Kano) Distance: 1,200km Cost per 40ft container: N2.8 million – N3.5 million Transit time: 10-14 days (with Apapa gridlock and breakdowns) Risk: High - cargo damage, extortion on road, diesel price hike By Rail (Apapa to Kaduna to Kano ) Distance: Apapa to Kaduna 1,100km rail, Kaduna to Kano 250km Cost per 40ft container: N1.6 million – N1.9 million (NPA + NRC charges) Transit time: 48-72 hours when rail wagons available Saving: 40-45% cheaper than road Best for: Abuja importers can offload in Kaduna – Kaduna to Abuja is 2 hours, N300k by truck Winner for Abuja: Rail to Kaduna + short truck to Abuja saves N1.2 million per container. What is Included in Rail Cost? - NP...