The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) announced plans to roll out special end-of-the-year train services across all routes nationwide, in line with a Federal Government directive. The initiative, aimed at easing travel for Nigerians during the festive season, was confirmed in a statement by Yakub Mahmood, NRC’s Deputy Director of Public Relations, on Wednesday.
The move aligns with the government’s efforts to provide affordable and accessible transportation options for citizens traveling to celebrate Christmas and New Year with loved ones. Olujimi Oyetomi, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry of Transportation, affirmed the plan, hinting at potential discounts but withholding specific details on pricing.
Last year, the Federal Government approved a 50% discount on inter-state road travel and a 100% discount on train fares during the Yuletide period. The initiative, which ran from December 21, 2023, to January 4, 2024, benefitted over 112,000 passengers, according to the Association of Luxury Bus Owners of Nigeria.
In its statement, the NRC highlighted that the special train services will include scheduled passenger trains to ensure citizens enjoy the holiday season. The exact dates and modalities for the service are expected to be announced soon.
“The management of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, in compliance with the Federal Government’s directive through the Federal Ministry of Transportation, hereby informs the general public that the NRC shall operate end-of-the-year special train services in commemoration of Christmas and New Year celebrations,” the statement read.
The NRC extended its festive wishes to passengers, saying: “We wish all our esteemed customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year in advance.”
This initiative underscores the government’s continued commitment to enhancing public transportation and making travel affordable for Nigerians during one of the busiest times of the year.
