LAGOS – The Federal Government’s 50% nationwide discount on train fares has triggered a massive surge in passenger traffic, with major railway corridors recording near-full capacity on the first day of the Yuletide initiative.
The discounted travel, which commenced on Tuesday, is part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, designed to ease transportation costs for Nigerians travelling home for Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Significant Surge Across Key Routes
Early findings at major train stations revealed a significant increase in passenger turnout. Key standard gauge corridors, including the busy Lagos–Ibadan and Abhdad–Kaduna routes, as well as several narrow gauge services, reported heavy traffic with many trains operating at or near full capacity.
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) confirmed that advance bookings and early ticket purchases indicated a strong public response to the initiative, which offers a 50% fare reduction throughout the festive season.
Passengers Hail Timely Economic Relief
Passengers at various stations commended the policy, describing it as a much-needed economic relief during the peak travel period.
“It is a very timely intervention,” said one traveller at the Lagos station. “The cost of traveling home for Christmas has been a huge burden for my family. This 50% cut makes it possible for us to reunite with our loved ones without financial strain.”
Similar sentiments were echoed by group travellers and families, who highlighted the savings as a critical factor enabling their festive journeys.
NRC Assures Safe, Efficient Operations
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the NRC, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, assured the public of the corporation’s preparedness to manage the increased demand.
“We are fully ready to deliver safe, efficient, and customer-focused services throughout the Yuletide season,” Dr. Opeifa stated. He confirmed that both standard gauge and narrow gauge services are fully operational, with enhanced security, safety, and customer service measures deployed across all stations and onboard trains to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Travel Guidelines and Ticket Purchase
To facilitate the increased traffic, the NRC has advised passengers to adhere to the following guidelines:
· Standard Gauge Routes: Passengers are to continue using NRC-approved online ticketing platforms for bookings.
· Narrow Gauge Services: Tickets can be purchased at designated railway stations.
The Corporation has reaffirmed its commitment to seamless festive operations and urged all travellers to cooperate with railway officials and comply with travel guidelines to ensure hitch-free journeys during the discount period.
The initiative underscores the government’s push to promote rail transport as a safe, reliable, and affordable alternative for mass mobility, particularly during peak travel seasons.
