FG retains free train services nationwide during festive period
BY TEMITOPE ADEBAYO
The Federal Government has announced that train services across Nigeria will remain free throughout the festive season, ensuring affordable and convenient travel for citizens.
The Minister of Transportation, Sen. Saidu Ahmed Alkali, disclosed this in Abuja, stating that the initiative will run until 5 January 2025.
Speaking about the ongoing travel palliatives, which also include a 50 per cent discount on road transportation fares, Alkali emphasised that the measures aim to ease travel challenges during the holidays. “This initiative ensures Nigerians can travel conveniently ahead of the holidays and return after the festivities,” he said.
The free rail services, launched recently, cover key routes including Lagos to Ibadan, Warri to Itakpe, Port Harcourt to Aba, and Abuja to Kaduna. In just four days, the initiative has transported 288,644 passengers nationwide.
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Alkali also highlighted the road transportation programme, which is expected to benefit over 17,000 passengers daily. “Through extensive consultations with stakeholders, we’ve ensured transparency and effectiveness in implementing these discounted fares,” he noted.
The free train services and discounted road fares underscore the government’s commitment to alleviating travel costs for Nigerians during the festive period, providing accessible and reliable transportation options across the country.
