The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has reaffirmed its commitment to improving efficiency, passenger comfort and safety across all train services nationwide, following the resumption of normal fare operations on Sunday, 4 January 2026.
The corporation announced the successful conclusion of the Federal Government-approved 50 per cent fare reduction on passenger train services, marking the end of the special yuletide rail operation.
Speaking on the outcome of the initiative, the Managing Director of the NRC, Kayode Opeifa, said the discounted fares, which were in effect throughout the festive season, attracted significant passenger patronage across all operational corridors. He noted that thousands of Nigerians took advantage of the programme to travel safely, conveniently and at reduced cost.
Opeifa explained that passengers widely welcomed the intervention, describing it as timely relief that helped ease the financial pressures associated with festive travel, while also encouraging greater use of rail transportation.
According to him, railway stations recorded consistent passenger turnout, orderly boarding procedures and smooth train departures on standard gauge routes, including Lagos–Ibadan, Abuja–Kaduna and Warri–Itakpe, as well as on narrow gauge Mass Transit Train (MTT) services throughout the period.
He added that overall service delivery remained strong, with most train operations running according to schedule and passengers adequately accommodated across all corridors.
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“The festive operation was largely hitch-free, with NRC staff displaying professionalism, dedication and a strong commitment to duty. Ticketing processes, both online and onsite, were efficiently managed, while customer service officers provided vital assistance to passengers, especially first-time rail users. Security agencies and other relevant stakeholders also played crucial roles in ensuring safety and smooth operations at stations and onboard trains,” Opeifa said.
The NRC management also expressed appreciation to passengers for their cooperation and patience, as well as to the media for their support, noting that extensive coverage of the initiative helped raise public awareness and promote a positive image of rail transportation during the festive season.
Reiterating the corporation’s long-term goals, Opeifa assured Nigerians of sustained efforts to enhance service delivery, expand access to rail transport and align operations with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda through people-centred initiatives that directly benefit citizens.
