NRC Maintains High Passenger Turnout as Yuletide Discount Ends

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has reported a strong surge in passenger numbers across its rail network following the conclusion of the government-approved 50 per cent Yuletide fare discount, which ran from December 23, 2025, to January 4, 2026.

According to NRC management, the reduced fares drew large crowds, with major routes such as Lagos–Ibadan, Abuja–Kaduna and Warri–Itakpe reporting near-capacity passenger movement during the peak of the festive travel period. The discount was introduced by the Federal Government to ease travel costs and encourage the use of rail services during the busy end-of-year holiday season.

Officials said the fare cut significantly boosted patronage, as passengers took advantage of the lower costs to travel between cities for holiday reunions, celebrations and family visits. The online ticketing platform and station-based sales both played key roles in managing the increased demand smoothly.

Security deployment and customer service arrangements were enhanced throughout the period to ensure safe and orderly boarding, arrival and departure processes at NRC stations nationwide. The NRC described the turnout as a testament to growing public confidence in rail travel as an affordable, comfortable and reliable alternative to road transport.

Management thanked staff and partners for their support, noting that the successful turnout will inform future pricing decisions and service planning as the corporation continues to improve Nigeria’s rail infrastructure and passenger experience.

By Oshuniran Sheriff Ola