The Nigerian Railways Corporation (NRC) has launched its 50% discount on train fares for Christmas nationwide, reporting high passenger turnout on major rail corridors.
In a statement issued in Lagos on Tuesday, the Corporation indicated that the discount, approved by the Federal Government, went into effect across the country as Nigerians traveled en masse to celebrate Christmas and the New Year.
According to the NRC, major standard-gauge routes, including Lagos-Ibadan and Abuja-Kaduna, saw high passenger traffic, while key narrow-gauge services also experienced increased ridership.
The Corporation revealed that several train departures operated at nearly full capacity, and bookings indicate widespread public acceptance of the fare reduction initiative.
The discounted holiday rail service will be available from Tuesday, December 23, 2025, to Sunday, January 4, 2026, during which passengers will be entitled to a 50% discount on train fares nationwide.
The NRC stated that passengers who spoke with its officials praised the initiative, describing it as timely and cost-effective, especially for families and groups of travelers returning home to celebrate the holiday season.
According to the Corporation, the holiday discount aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to reduce transportation costs, promote inclusive mobility, and encourage greater use of rail transport during peak seasons.
Speaking about the start of the holiday operations, NRC Director General and CEO Dr. Kayode Opeifa assured passengers of safe, efficient, and customer-focused service throughout the holiday season.
The Corporation confirmed that both standard-gauge and narrow-gauge services are fully operational, with enhanced safety and customer service measures in place at stations and on board trains to manage the increased passenger traffic.
Passengers using standard-gauge routes were advised to continue booking their tickets through NRC-approved online platforms, while those traveling on narrow-gauge services could purchase tickets at designated train stations.
The NRC also urged passengers to cooperate with rail officials and adhere to all travel guidelines to ensure smooth and uninterrupted journeys during the holiday discount period.
Be the first to comment