Follow Us on Google
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has concluded the Federal Government–approved 50 per cent fare reduction on passenger train services nationwide, following what it described as a highly successful festive operation that moved thousands of Nigerians across the country during the yuletide.
In a statement, the Corporation’s Chief Public Relations Officer, Mr Callistus Unyimadu, said the discounted fares, which ran throughout the Christmas and New Year holidays, recorded impressive patronage across all operational corridors, reinforcing rail transport as a safe, affordable and reliable travel option.
According to him, many passengers praised the initiative for easing the financial pressure traditionally associated with festive travel. “Passengers widely applauded the intervention as a timely relief that eased the financial burden of festive travel while further promoting rail transportation as a preferred mode of mobility,” Unyimadu stated.
He noted that major standard gauge routes — Lagos–Ibadan, Abuja–Kaduna and Warri–Itakpe — alongside the narrow gauge Mass Transit Train (MTT) services, witnessed steady passenger turnout and smooth operations. “Across the standard gauge corridors of Lagos-Ibadan, Abuja-Kaduna, and Warri-Itakpe, as well as the narrow gauge Mass Transit Train (MTT) services, stations experienced steady passenger turnout, orderly boarding processes, and smooth train departures throughout the period,” he said.
Unyimadu added that train services largely ran as scheduled, with passengers adequately accommodated and minimal disruptions recorded.
He attributed the hitch-free operations to the professionalism and dedication of NRC staff, as well as effective collaboration with security agencies and other stakeholders.
“Ticketing processes, both online and onsite, were effectively managed, while customer service personnel provided necessary support to passengers, particularly first-time rail users,” he explained, adding that security operatives ensured safety at stations and onboard trains.
The NRC also expressed appreciation to passengers and the media for their cooperation and support. “Management further acknowledges the cooperation and patience of passengers, as well as the invaluable support of the media, whose coverage enhanced public awareness of the initiative and projected the positive image of rail transportation during the festive season,” Unyimadu said.
As normal fare operations resume nationwide, the Corporation reaffirmed its commitment to improved service delivery, expanded access to rail transport, and sustained support for the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda through people-centred initiatives that directly impact Nigerians’ lives.
