In a press release issued in Lagos, the Corporation said passengers turned out in significant numbers at major stations along the Lagos–Ibadan and Abuja–Kaduna standard gauge corridors, as well as key narrow gauge routes, as Nigerians took advantage of the fare reduction to travel for Christmas and New Year celebrations.
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) says its 50 per cent Yuletide train fare discount, approved by the Nigerian government, commenced nationwide on Tuesday with a large turnout of passengers across major rail corridors.
In a press release issued in Lagos, the Corporation said passengers turned out in significant numbers at major stations along the Lagos–Ibadan and Abuja–Kaduna standard gauge corridors, as well as key narrow gauge routes, as Nigerians took advantage of the fare reduction to travel for Christmas and New Year celebrations.
According to the NRC, several train departures operated at near full capacity, with early bookings reflecting a strong public response to the 50 per cent discount initiative.
The festive rail service, which is being implemented by the NRC, runs from Tuesday, December 23, 2025, to Sunday, January 4, 2025.
During the period, passengers are entitled to a 50 per cent reduction in train fares nationwide, a move aimed at easing the cost of travel during the Yuletide season.
The Corporation noted that many passengers who interacted with NRC officials expressed appreciation for the discounted fares, describing the initiative as timely and economically relieving, particularly for families and group travellers journeying to reunite with loved ones.
The NRC said the 50 per cent Yuletide Train Ride forms part of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, designed to reduce transportation costs, promote inclusive mobility and encourage the use of rail transport as a safe and reliable alternative during peak travel periods.
Speaking on the commencement of the festive operations, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the NRC, Dr Kayode Opeifa, assured passengers of the Corporation’s readiness to sustain safe, efficient and customer-focused services throughout the Yuletide period.
The Corporation confirmed that both standard gauge and narrow gauge services are fully operational, adding that enhanced security, safety and customer service measures have been put in place at stations and onboard trains to manage the expected increase in passenger traffic arising from the discount offer.
Passengers travelling on standard gauge routes were advised to continue using NRC-approved online booking platforms, while those using narrow gauge services can purchase tickets directly at designated railway stations.
Reiterating its commitment to seamless festive operations, the NRC urged passengers to cooperate with railway officials and comply with all travel guidelines to ensure smooth journeys throughout the Yuletide discount period.