FG announces two weeks free train trips from December 20

The federal government has approved free train rides across the country for Nigerians travelling to celebrate Christmas with their families.

Addressing state house correspondents after the federal executive council (FEC) meeting on Monday, Mohammed Idris, minister of information and national orientation, said the free rides will commence on December 20.

Idris said the initiative aims to cushion the impact of transportation costs, particularly for vulnerable Nigerians.

“As we did last year, there will be free train service to all Nigerians from December 20 up until January 5, free train service nationwide,” Idris said.

“This is consistent with the President’s desire to cushion the effect of transportation, especially to the most vulnerable Nigerians.

“Recall that this also happened in the last Christmas period and the Sallah period. And the President has also approved that this year.”

In 2023, Tinubu approved a 50 percent discount for inter-state road travels, and 100 percent for train trips for Nigerians travelling to celebrate Christmas and New Year with their families.

The free train service was later extended till January 7.

The federal government had said the president wanted citizens to travel within Nigeria during the yuletide season without the burden of exorbitant transport fares.