NRC Records Massive Passenger Turnout After Nationwide 50% Yuletide Train Fare Reduction
OLORUNDARE ENIMOLA, Lagos
The Federal Government’s 50 per cent Yuletide train fare discount commenced nationwide on Tuesday, recording a significant surge in passenger traffic across major railway corridors as Nigerians travelled for Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Findings at key rail stations along the Lagos–Ibadan and Abuja–Kaduna standard gauge corridors, as well as several narrow gauge routes, showed heavy passenger turnout, with many train services operating at near full capacity. Early bookings and advance ticket purchases reflected strong public response to the discounted fare initiative.
The festive rail service, implemented by the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), offers passengers a 50 per cent reduction in train fares nationwide throughout the Yuletide period, as part of efforts to ease transportation costs during the peak travel season.
Several passengers who spoke with NRC officials commended the initiative, describing it as timely and economically relieving, particularly for families and group travellers returning home to reunite with loved ones during the festivities.
The discounted Yuletide Train Ride is part of the Federal Government’s people-oriented interventions under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, aimed at reducing the cost of transportation, promoting inclusive mobility, and encouraging increased use of rail transport as a safe and reliable alternative during peak travel periods.
Speaking on the commencement of the programme, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the NRC, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, assured passengers of the Corporation’s readiness to deliver safe, efficient and customer-focused services throughout the Yuletide season.
The NRC also confirmed that both standard gauge and narrow gauge services are fully operational, with enhanced security, safety and customer service measures deployed across stations and onboard trains to manage the increased passenger traffic occasioned by the fare reduction.
Passengers travelling on standard gauge routes were advised to continue using NRC-approved online ticketing platforms, while those using narrow gauge services can purchase tickets at designated railway stations.
The Corporation reaffirmed its commitment to seamless festive operations and urged passengers to cooperate with railway officials and comply with all travel guidelines to ensure smooth and hitch-free journeys during the Yuletide discount period.
