Nigerian Railway Corporation Expands Major Route Schedules to Manage Sallah Holiday Travel Surge

Nigerian Railway Corporation increases train trips for Sallah. Explore new schedules for Lagos-Ibadan, Abuja-Kaduna, and free Osun State special trains.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 18, 2026, 4:23 PM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Peoples Gazette

Temporary Expansion of Rail Capacity for Festivities

The Nigerian Railway Corporation, or NRC, has formally updated its operational schedule to address the significant spike in travel demand expected during the upcoming Sallah holiday. According to a statement released on Wednesday by Chief Public Relations Officer Callistus Unyimadu, the corporation is deploying additional rolling stock and increasing the number of daily trips across its most active lines. This strategic adjustment is intended to provide a seamless transit experience for thousands of citizens traveling to reunite with family members. The management emphasized that these enhancements are a direct response to historical data showing a heavy surge in rail patronage during major religious festivals in Nigeria.

Modified Schedules for Lagos and Ibadan Corridors

Under the new festive arrangement, the Lagos to Ibadan train service will transition to a three trip daily schedule starting this Thursday. Departures from the Mobolaji Johnson Station in Lagos are slated for early morning, mid day, and late afternoon slots to give commuters maximum flexibility. Similarly, the return legs from the Obafemi Awolowo Station in Ibadan will follow a synchronized three trip pattern. Mr. Unyimadu clarified that this particular increase is a one day special arrangement designed specifically for the peak of the celebration, after which the corridor will immediately revert to its standard operating timetable.

Enhanced Frequency on the Northern Rail Link

Travelers utilizing the Abuja to Kaduna Train Service will also benefit from a significant boost in availability over the holiday weekend. While two trips are scheduled for Thursday, the NRC will increase the frequency to three daily trips from March 20 through March 23. This expansion is aimed at easing the persistent pressure on the northern corridor, which remains a vital artery for both business and leisure travel. By providing these additional options, the NRC hopes to reduce station congestion and ensure that ticket availability meets the needs of the holidaying public without compromising safety standards.