Eid-el-Kabir: FG approves 50% discount on train services

The Federal Government has approved a 50 per cent reduction in fares on all passenger train services operated by the Nigerian Railway Corporation to cushion transportation costs for Nigerians during the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

This is scheduled to take effect from Tuesday, May 26, 2026 till Monday, June 1, 2026.

This was made known through a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Transportation, Funsho Adebiyi, on Tuesday.

Under the arrangement, passengers travelling on NRC routes across the country will pay half of the existing approved fares within the six-day period, a move the government said was aimed at supporting Nigerians amid rising travel costs during the festive season.

Adebiyi said the initiative formed part of efforts by the Federal Government to make movement easier and more affordable for citizens celebrating the Muslim festival.

“The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Transportation, has approved a 50 per cent fare discount on all train services operated by the Nigerian Railway Corporation as part of measures to ease transportation costs for Nigerians during the Eid-el-Kabir celebration,” he stated.

According to the ministry, passengers who had already purchased tickets before the announcement at the old rates would not lose out, as they would receive rebates equivalent to 50 per cent of the ticket cost.

“Passengers who had earlier purchased tickets at the full fare before the announcement will be to a 50 per cent rebate, reusable for train rides on or before Monday, June 1, 2026,” Adebiyi explained.

Despite the fare reduction, the ministry further said that train schedules and timetables would remain unchanged throughout the festive period.

The Federal Ministry of Transportation also appreciated Nigerians for their continued support of the rail transport system and extended goodwill messages to Muslim faithful across the country.

“The Federal Ministry of Transportation appreciates the continued support of Nigerians and wishes all passengers and the Muslim faithful a peaceful and joyous Eid-el-Kabir celebration. Eid Mubarak,” the statement added.

Akinlotan is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over eight years of experience reporting on politics, social justice, motoring, railways, and aviation. His work focuses on accountability, public interest, and social change, producing stories that inspire reform and amplify underrepresented voices. Akinlotan’s reporting reflects extensive newsroom experience, editorial insight, and a strong commitment to accurate, impact-driven journalism.