The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has announced a 50 per cent reduction in train fares across the country for the Christmas and New Year season, in a move aimed at easing travel costs for Nigerians during the festive period.
The Managing Director of the NRC, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, made the disclosure during an interview on TVC News Breakfast, a development he later shared on his official X handle. According to him, the fare reduction will take effect from December 23 and run through January 4.
Dr. Opeifa explained that the decision comes at a time when transportation costs through other means have surged due to increased seasonal demand. He noted that air travel has become particularly expensive, with tickets selling for as much as ₦500,000 when available, while road transport fares to destinations such as Abuja have climbed to about ₦100,000 or more.
He described the situation as a predictable outcome of the festive season, when travel demand spikes and prices rise accordingly. Against this backdrop, he said the Federal Government directed the NRC to intervene by making rail transport more affordable for the public.
According to the NRC boss, the corporation fully supports the directive, stressing that the fare cut reflects its responsibility as a public service institution. He stated that while the management considered offering free train services, past experiences showed that such an approach created operational challenges for regular passengers.
Dr. Opeifa recalled that previous free-train initiatives, introduced under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, led to overcrowding and disruptions, making it difficult for daily commuters to access the service. As a result, the NRC opted for a heavily subsidised fare model to balance affordability with efficiency and order.
He further assured Nigerians that the corporation has taken steps to improve rail services ahead of the festive rush, particularly in enhancing passenger comfort and overall travel experience.
The NRC expressed confidence that the fare reduction will provide relief for travellers while reinforcing rail transport as a safe, reliable, and cost-effective option during the Yuletide season.
