NRC slashes train fares 50% for yuletide, sparks massive passenger rush
Railway
Abdullateef Fowewe
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) saw an unprecedented surge in passengers on Tuesday after launching a federal government-approved 50% fare cut for the Christmas and New Year season.
Major stations on the Lagos-Ibadan and Abuja-Kaduna standard gauge lines, along with key narrow gauge routes, brimmed with travelers.
Departures ran beyond capacity as families and groups seized the discount to head home for festivities.
The promotional service runs from December 23, 2025, to January 4, 2026, providing nationwide half-price tickets during peak travel demand.
NRC officials credited the turnout to rising trust in rail travel and the discount’s timely relief amid soaring seasonal costs.
“This initiative is timely and economically relieving,” one passenger said. “It eases the burden of festive travel and encourages safer long-distance movement.”
NRC Managing Director and CEO, Dr Kayode Opeifa emphasised safety measures in his comments on the rollout.
“Both standard gauge and narrow gauge services were fully operational, supported by enhanced security, safety, and customer service arrangements at stations and onboard trains to manage increased passenger volumes,” Opeifa assured.
