The Minister of Transportation, Sen. Saidu Ahmed Alkali, has disclosed that train services in Nigeria will remain free throughout the festive season.
Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday, Alkali said the initiatives will run until January 5, 2025, offering affordable and accessible travel options nationwide.
While providing updates on the free train service and the 50 per cent discount on road transportation fares, the Minister explained that the implementation of travel palliative measures aims to ease transportation challenges for Nigerians during the festive season.
It will be recalled that the ministry a few days ago rolled out free rail services along key routes, including Lagos to Ibadan, Warri to Itakpe, Port Harcourt to Aba, and Abuja to Kaduna.
The initiative, according to the Minister, has transported 288,644 passengers across the nation within four days.
“This initiative ensures that Nigerians can travel conveniently ahead of the holidays and return after the festivities,” Senator Alkali noted, adding that the free rail services will remain operational throughout the festive period.
Alkali stated that the road transportation programme is expected to benefit over 17,000 passengers daily.
“Through extensive consultations with stakeholders, we’ve ensured transparency and effectiveness in implementing these discounted fares,” he added.
He assured Nigerians that steps are being taken to address operational challenges, noting that minor technical issues in the rail sector have been resolved and plans are underway to increase the availability of coaches and expand train schedules.
“For road transport, initial delays due to feasibility studies and consultations have been overcome, with operational staff deployed nationwide to ensure smooth execution.
“Our staff across the country are ready to address challenges promptly and ensure a seamless travel experience,” Senator Alkali emphasised.
The palliative measures aim to serve hundreds of thousands of passengers. Rail services are projected to transport over 320,000 passengers by January 5, while road transport services target 288,644 passengers within 13 days.
“We hope these measures bring relief and joy during the festive season,” he concluded, affirming that the holiday palliatives reflect the government’s commitment to easing transportation challenges during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
