The Federal Government has inaugurated an inter-agency committee to assess the feasibility of a proposed $200bn gas-powered high-speed rail project spanning approximately 4,000 kilometres across Nigeria.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, who inaugurated the panel in Abuja on Thursday, said the committee would evaluate the credibility of the proposal submitted by a consortium led by De-Sadel Nigeria Limited in partnership with China Liancai Petroleum Investment Holdings Limited.

He explained that the project is designed as a multi-phase programme integrating rail infrastructure with gas development, power generation, and transmission, connecting key economic corridors such as Lagos, Abuja, Kano, and Port Harcourt.

Akume emphasised that a project of such magnitude must undergo rigorous scrutiny to ensure it aligns with national priorities, is technically sound, financially viable, and complies with Nigeria’s legal and regulatory frameworks.

He noted that inputs from security, financial intelligence, and regulatory agencies had already been received, necessitating a coordinated review process.

According to him, the committee’s mandate includes verifying the financial claims of the promoters, assessing proof of funds, and examining the technical, legal, environmental, and regulatory aspects of the proposal.

The panel will also evaluate the financing model, the competence of technical partners, and potential security and financial risks associated with the project

Akume added that the committee is expected to submit an objective, evidence-based report that will guide the Federal Government’s decision on whether to proceed with the ambitious infrastructure project.