In response to growing demand, the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has expanded its train services on the busy Abuja-Kaduna route, increasing the number of weekday operations from four to six. The expanded schedule, running from Monday to Friday, aims to enhance convenience and meet the needs of a rising number of passengers opting for rail as a preferred mode of transport.
According to a statement issued by NRC Deputy Director of Public Relations Yakub Mohmood on Wednesday, the decision followed a five-month analysis that showed a 22 percent increase in new passenger registrations on the Abuja-Kaduna route’s ticketing platform. This trend highlights a significant shift among Nigerians toward rail travel, valued for its comfort, reliability, and safety.
The NRC, in its statement, expressed its commitment to meeting customer expectations and tackling ticket racketeering, a common complaint among commuters. “Reaffirming its commitment to responding to customer demands, improving satisfaction, and tackling ticket racketeering, the NRC has expanded services from four to six on weekdays when demand peaks on its AKTS route,” the statement read.
Acting NRC Managing Director, Ben Iloanusi, pointed out that a consistent rise in passenger numbers has driven the expansion of services. He also noted similar growth trends on other routes, such as Lagos-Ibadan, Warri-Itakpe, and Port Harcourt-Aba, with the NRC already working to improve services on these lines.
To further ensure customer satisfaction, the NRC pledged increased management oversight on key routes, aiming to enhance efficiency and address ticketing issues. The statement encouraged passengers to use official NRC ticket platforms to avoid ticket racketeers and take full advantage of the added services.
This expansion of the Abuja-Kaduna route mirrors recent enhancements on the Lagos-Ibadan line, which now offers additional trips on Fridays and Saturdays to meet rising demand. For more details on the expanded schedule, the NRC directs customers to visit its official website at www.nrc.gov.ng.
