The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has unveiled special train service arrangements across its major corridors to ensure smooth and convenient travel during the forthcoming Eid-el-Fitr (Sallah) celebrations, with increased capacity and additional trips to cater to the expected nationwide passenger surge.
In a statement signed by the Corporation’s Chief Public Relations Officer, Mr. Callistus Unyimadu, on behalf of the management, as part of the festive plan, the Lagos–Ibadan Train Service (LITS) will operate three trips on Thursday, March 19, 2026. From the Lagos end (Mobolaji Johnson Station, Ebute Metta), departures are scheduled for 7:40 a.m., 1:40 p.m., and 4:00 p.m., while from the Ibadan end (Obafemi Awolowo Station, Moniya), trains will depart at 8:00 a.m., 10:50 a.m., and 4:30 p.m. This one-day arrangement is designed to accommodate increased passenger traffic, after which normal schedules will resume.
On the Abuja–Kaduna Train Service (AKTS) corridor, two trips will run on Thursday, March 19, while three daily trips are scheduled for Friday, March 20 through Monday, March 23, 2026, providing expanded travel options throughout the festive period.
In a collaborative effort with the Osun State Government, the statement disclosed that the NRC will also operate the Imole Special Train on the narrow gauge corridor from Iddo Station in Lagos to Osogbo. The service, fully sponsored by the Osun State Government, will convey indigenes free of charge as part of its Sallah initiative, with NRC providing rolling stock, technical support, and operations.
On the Warri–Itakpe Train Service (WITS) corridor, services will run three times weekly. Trains will depart Warri for Itakpe on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Fridays at 8:00 a.m., while return trips from Itakpe to Warri will operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays at 12:00 noon. Thursdays are reserved for maintenance to ensure safe and efficient operations.
Meanwhile, the Port Harcourt–Aba Train Service on the Eastern narrow gauge corridor will maintain its regular schedule throughout the Sallah period.
The NRC management reassures passengers of its commitment to safe, reliable, and efficient rail services nationwide. Travellers are advised to plan ahead, arrive early at stations, and comply with all ticketing and security procedures.
The Corporation wishes all Muslim faithful a peaceful and joyous Eid-el-Fitr celebration and encourages continued patronage of rail transport as a safe and dependable means of travel.