Yuletide: NRC’s 50% Fare Slash Sparks Nationwide Passenger Rush
The Federal Government approved a 50 per cent discount on Yuletide train fares, which commenced nationwide on Tuesday, recording an impressive passenger turnout across major railway corridors as Nigerians seized the opportunity to travel at half the usual cost for the Christmas and New Year festivities.
From the Lagos–Ibadan and Abuja–Kaduna standard gauge routes to key narrow gauge lines, railway stations witnessed heavy traffic, with several train services operating at near full capacity. Early bookings and strong walk-in patronage underscored the public’s enthusiastic response to the fare reduction.
The festive rail service, implemented by the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), runs from Tuesday, 23 December 2025 to Sunday, 4 January 2026, offering passengers a 50 per cent reduction on fares nationwide to ease the financial burden of seasonal travel.
Passengers who spoke with NRC officials lauded the initiative as timely and economically relieving, particularly for families and group travellers journeying to reunite with loved ones during the Yuletide season.
The discounted train service is a people-centred intervention under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, aimed at lowering transportation costs, promoting inclusive mobility, and encouraging greater use of rail transport as a safe and reliable option during peak travel periods.
Speaking on the commencement of the initiative, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the NRC, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, assured passengers of the Corporation’s readiness to sustain safe, efficient, and customer-focused operations throughout the festive period.
The NRC confirmed that both standard gauge and narrow gauge services are fully operational, with strengthened security, safety, and customer service measures deployed across stations and onboard trains to manage the anticipated surge in passenger traffic.
Passengers on standard gauge routes are advised to continue using NRC-approved online booking platforms, while those travelling on narrow gauge services can purchase tickets directly at designated railway stations.
The Nigerian Railway Corporation reaffirmed its commitment to seamless festive operations and urged passengers to cooperate with railway officials and adhere to all travel guidelines to ensure smooth and enjoyable journeys during the 50% Yuletide Train Ride period.
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