The Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC) has announced a 50 per cent discount on train fares for commuters during the Yuletide season, effective from Tuesday, December 23, to January 4, 2026. The move aims to reduce travel costs amid rising fares across other transportation modes.
Managing Director Kayode Opeifa, speaking on TVC News Breakfast on Monday, explained that the discount was directed by the Federal Government and aligns with the NRC’s commitment as a public corporation. “We would have loved to make it free, as we did last year, but that caused discomfort to regular trade users,” he said.
Opeifa highlighted the skyrocketing costs in other travel modes, noting that some road tickets now go for as much as N500,000. He cited demand pressures and seasonal travel surges as the main reasons behind these increases. The NRC boss also pointed out challenges like overcrowding and “jolly riders” occupying seats without traveling long distances, prompting the fare reduction to prioritize genuine passengers.
He further promised enhancements to service quality, including upgraded facilities, air-conditioned restaurants, and improved passenger amenities. The NRC expects these measures to make train travel more affordable and comfortable during the festive period.
The fare cut comes as Nigerians grapple with soaring airfares and heightened road travel costs, compounded by safety concerns on major highways during the peak holiday season.
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