NRC Deploys Special Eid Train Services Nationwide for Sallah Travel Surge
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has announced the rollout of special train services across key rail corridors to facilitate travel during the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations. This initiative aims to ease passenger movement by increasing capacity and adding extra trips to meet the expected surge in demand.
Enhanced Services on Major Corridors
On the Lagos–Ibadan Train Service (LITS), three additional trips were introduced starting yesterday. Departures from Mobolaji Johnson Station in Ebute Metta are scheduled for 7:40 a.m., 1:40 p.m., and 4:00 p.m., while trains from Obafemi Awolowo Station in Moniya, Ibadan, will depart at 8:00 a.m., 10:50 a.m., and 4:30 p.m. The corporation emphasized that this adjustment is a one-day measure for the festive period, after which normal schedules will resume.
Expanded Options on Abuja–Kaduna Route
For the Abuja–Kaduna corridor, two trips operated yesterday, with three daily trips scheduled from today through Monday, March 23. This expansion provides additional travel options for passengers during the holiday, ensuring smoother connectivity between these key cities.
Free Services and Operational Support
The NRC also revealed the return of the Imole Special Train on the narrow-gauge line between Iddo in Lagos and Osogbo. This service, operated in partnership with the Osun State government, will transport Osun indigenes free of charge as part of the state's Sallah initiative, with the NRC providing operational support to ensure efficient execution.
Maintained Schedules on Other Routes
On the Warri–Itakpe route, services will continue on a three-time weekly schedule. Trains will depart Warri for Itakpe on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Fridays at 8:00 a.m., with return services from Itakpe running on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays at 12:00 noon. Thursdays remain reserved for routine maintenance to uphold service reliability.
Meanwhile, the Port Harcourt–Aba service on the eastern narrow-gauge corridor will operate on its regular timetable throughout the festive period, ensuring consistent travel options for passengers in the region.
Commitment to Safety and Efficiency
The corporation has assured passengers of safe, reliable, and efficient services across all routes. Travelers are urged to plan their journeys, arrive early at stations, and comply with ticketing and security procedures to ensure a smooth experience.
In a gesture of goodwill, the NRC extended Eid-el-Fitr greetings to Muslim faithful and encouraged Nigerians to utilize rail transport as a dependable travel option during this festive season.
