NRC announces free train rides, extra trips for Eid Fitr

NRC announces free train rides, extra trips for Sallah special 

 

Getting home for the holidays just got a whole lot easier as the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has rolled out its special Sallah train schedule, deploying extra trips and increasing capacity to ensure Nigerians can celebrate Eid-el-Fitr with their loved ones without the usual travel stress.

From the bustling Lagos-Ibadan corridor to the scenic Warri-Itakpe route, the NRC is stepping up its game to handle the festive surge.

Its key highlights of the Sallah schedule as contained in its latest statement are as follows:

* Lagos–Ibadan (LITS): On Thursday, March 19, the service will run three special trips.

* From Lagos: 7:40 a.m., 1:40 p.m., and 4:00 p.m.

* From Ibadan: 8:00 a.m., 10:50 a.m., and 4:30 p.m.

* Abuja–Kaduna (AKTS): To keep the capital connected, the NRC is boosting frequency. After two trips on Thursday, the corridor will move to three trips daily from Friday, March 20, through Monday, March 23.

* Warri–Itakpe (WITS): This route maintains its thrice-weekly flow.

* Warri to Itakpe: Sundays, Tuesdays, and Fridays (8:00 a.m.).

* Itakpe to Warri: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays (12:00 p.m.).

* Eastern Narrow Gauge: The Port Harcourt–Aba service remains fully operational on its regular schedule, ensuring the South-East stays moving.

These details are contained in a statement signed by the NRC Chief Public Relations Officer, Callistus Unyimadu.

Osun free rides

In a heart-warming partnership, the NRC and the Osun State Government are bringing back the Imole Special Train.

Indigenes of Osun State can travel from Iddo Station in Lagos to Osogbo free of charge. This initiative, fully sponsored by the state, aims to ease the financial burden on families during the festive season.

“This special arrangement is designed to accommodate increased passenger traffic… ensuring a safe, reliable, and efficient rail transport service,” stated Callistus Unyimadu, NRC’s Chief Public Relations Officer.

Tips for travellers 

To ensure your trip is as smooth as the tracks, the NRC recommends:

* Arrive Early: Be at the station well ahead of your departure time.

* Verify Tickets: Ensure you follow all official ticketing and security protocols.

* Check the Date: Remember that the Lagos-Ibadan special three-trip schedule is for March 19 only before reverting to normal service.