The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has implemented a 50 per cent reduction in train fares nationwide to help commuters manage travel costs during the 2025 Christmas and New Year festive season. The discounted fares, approved by the Federal Government, are part of efforts to make travel more affordable and promote rail transport as a comfortable alternative amid rising transport prices.
Discounted Fares for Yuletide Travel
The fare reduction, which began on Tuesday, 23 December 2025, will run through Sunday, 4 January 2026, covering both standard gauge and narrow gauge services across key inter-city routes, including major corridors such as Lagos–Ibadan and Abuja–Kaduna.
NRC Managing Director Dr. Kayode Opeifa explained that the 50 per cent cut is designed to cushion passengers from high travel costs seen across other transport modes during the festive period. “With airfares and road transport costs rising sharply in recent weeks, this discount will give commuters meaningful relief while encouraging the use of rail transport,” he said.
Strong Public Response
The discounted fares have attracted a large turnout of passengers nationwide, with many returning early bookings and crowded departures reflecting strong public demand. At several major stations, departures have operated near full capacity, demonstrating heightened interest in rail travel during peak holiday movement.
Passengers described the initiative as timely and economically relieving, especially for families, students, and group travellers making long-distance journeys to reunite with loved ones. Local travellers said the fare reduction has made holiday travel more accessible amidst broader seasonal price increases in road and air transport.
The NRC noted that the discount aligns with national objectives to reduce transportation burdens, promote inclusive mobility, and enhance the appeal of rail services as a reliable alternative during peak travel seasons. Both online ticketing channels and station-based sales remain active to give travellers flexibility in booking.
Passengers are also urged to follow travel guidelines and cooperate with railway officials to ensure smooth journeys throughout the festive period. Enhanced safety and customer service arrangements are in place to manage the increased passenger traffic and ensure comfortable travel.
