The Federal Government’s 50 per cent Yuletide train fare discount took effect nationwide on Tuesday, triggering a noticeable increase in passenger traffic across major railway routes as Nigerians travelled for Christmas and New Year celebrations. Checks at major rail stations along the Lagos–Ibadan and Abuja–Kaduna standard gauge corridors, as well as on several narrow gauge lines, revealed heavy passenger movement, with many services operating close to full capacity. Early reservations and advance ticket purchases indicated strong public uptake of the discounted fares.
The festive rail initiative, implemented by the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), provides a 50 per cent reduction in train fares nationwide throughout the Yuletide season, aimed at easing transport costs during the peak travel period.Passengers who spoke with NRC officials praised the initiative, describing it as timely and financially helpful, especially for families and group travellers heading home to celebrate with loved ones.
The Yuletide Train Ride forms part of the Federal Government’s citizen-focused interventions under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, designed to lower transportation costs, promote inclusive mobility and encourage greater use of rail transport as a safe and dependable option during peak travel periods.
Speaking on the launch of the programme, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the NRC, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, assured travellers of the Corporation’s preparedness to deliver safe, efficient and customer-oriented services throughout the festive season.
The NRC confirmed that both standard gauge and narrow gauge services are fully operational, with strengthened security, safety and customer service arrangements in place at stations and onboard trains to handle the increased passenger volume resulting from the fare reduction.
Passengers using standard gauge routes were advised to continue purchasing tickets through NRC-approved online platforms, while those travelling on narrow gauge lines can obtain tickets at designated railway stations. The Corporation reiterated its commitment to smooth festive operations and urged passengers to cooperate with railway officials and adhere to all travel guidelines to ensure hassle-free journeys during the Yuletide discount period.
Source: https://independent.ng/
