The 50 per cent discounted Yuletide Train Ride approved by the federal government which commenced nationwide on December 23, 2025 has continued to record an impressive passenger turnout across major railway corridors as Nigerians embraced the opportunity to travel at half the cost for Christmas and New Year celebrations.
At major stations along the Lagos–Ibadan and Abuja–Kaduna standard gauge corridors, as well as key narrow gauge routes nationwide, passenger turnout was notably high. Several train departures operated at near full capacity, driven by strong early bookings and widespread public response to the 50% fare reduction initiative.
The festive rail service, implemented by the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), runs from Tuesday, December 23, 2025 to Sunday, January 4, 2026. During this period, passengers enjoy a 50 per cent discount on train fares nationwide, easing the financial burden of festive travel for individuals, families, and group travellers.
Many passengers who interacted with NRC officials and the media expressed appreciation for the initiative, describing the discounted fares as timely, thoughtful, and economically relieving—particularly for those travelling long distances to reunite with loved ones during the Yuletide season.
The 50% Yuletide Train Ride is a people-oriented intervention under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, aimed at reducing transportation costs, promoting inclusive mobility, and encouraging the use of rail transport as a safe, efficient, and reliable alternative during peak travel periods.
Speaking on the commencement of the festive operations, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the NRC, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, assured passengers of the Corporation’s readiness to sustain safe, efficient, and customer-focused services throughout the Yuletide period.
The Corporation confirmed that both standard gauge and narrow gauge services are fully operational, with enhanced security, safety, and customer service measures deployed across stations and onboard trains to effectively manage increased passenger traffic resulting from the discount offer.
Passengers travelling on standard gauge routes are advised to continue using NRC-approved online booking platforms, while tickets for narrow gauge services are available for purchase at designated railway stations nationwide.
The Corporation reiterates its commitment to seamless festive operations and urges passengers to cooperate with railway officials and comply with all travel guidelines to ensure smooth, safe, and enjoyable journeys throughout the Yuletide discount period.