The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has reported a significant surge in passenger traffic across its major routes following the commencement of the federal government's 50 per cent discount on train fares for the festive season.
Festive Discount Drives Massive Patronage
According to a statement from the NRC, key rail corridors experienced a heavy turnout and near-full capacity operations shortly after the initiative became effective on Tuesday, December 23, 2025. The corporation's spokesperson, Mr. Callistus Unyimadu, confirmed the development, noting that the fare reduction was introduced specifically to ease the cost of travel during the Yuletide period.
The discount has led to increased patronage on major standard-gauge routes like the Lagos-Ibadan and Abuja-Kaduna lines, as well as on several narrow-gauge networks nationwide. The NRC stated that early bookings and physical turnout at stations reflected a strong public response, with many travellers seizing the opportunity of half-price fares to journey home for Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Discount Period and Operational Assurance
The discounted festive train service will run from Tuesday, December 23, 2025, to Sunday, January 4, 2026. During this window, all passengers are entitled to a 50% reduction on standard train fares.
Speaking on the programme's launch, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the NRC, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, assured the public of the corporation's readiness to maintain safe and efficient services throughout the season. He confirmed that both standard-gauge and narrow-gauge services are fully operational, with enhanced security, safety, and customer service measures deployed at stations and onboard trains to manage the expected high passenger volume.
Dr. Opeifa advised passengers to utilise the appropriate booking channels:
- Those travelling on standard-gauge routes should use NRC-approved online booking platforms.
- Passengers using narrow-gauge services should purchase tickets directly at designated railway stations.
Policy Context and Consumer Advisory
The NRC highlighted that the Yuletide train discount is in alignment with President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on reducing transportation costs, promoting inclusive mobility, and encouraging rail transport use during peak travel periods.
The surge in train travel comes amid a backdrop of increased airfares and persistent security concerns on the roads, making the discounted and relatively safer rail option highly attractive. In a related development, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) clarified that while transport fare hikes during the festive season are not inherently unlawful, it would sanction any exploitative practices by operators. The commission emphasised the necessity for transparency and timely information on fare pricing.
The NRC has reiterated its commitment to ensuring smooth operations over the holidays and has urged all passengers to cooperate with railway officials and adhere to travel guidelines for hitch-free journeys.
