NRC Increases Lagos–Ibadan Train Trips For Sallah Celebration

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has announced a temporary increase in train operations on the Lagos–Ibadan Train Service (LITS) corridor ahead of the Sallah celebration, in response to expected passenger surges.

The Corporation said the adjustment will take effect on Tuesday, May 26, with the number of daily trips rising from four to six for the festive period.

The Chief Public Relations Officer of the NRC, Callistus Unyimadu, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday in Lagos, noting that the decision was aimed at easing passenger movement during the holiday travel rush.

According to him, the increased operations are strictly temporary and will only apply during the Sallah period.

“Under the special arrangement, the corporation will operate six train trips on Tuesday, instead of the usual four trips currently operated on the corridor,” Unyimadu said.

He explained that Lagos departures will run at 7:45 a.m., 1:40 p.m., and 4:00 p.m., while Ibadan departures will be scheduled for 8:00 a.m., 10:50 a.m., and 4:30 p.m.

Unyimadu added that the normal timetable will resume after the festive period.

“NRC management clarifies that this arrangement is strictly temporary and applies only to the Sallah travel period,” he said.

He further noted that the Thursday six-trip schedule has also been temporarily adjusted, with only four trips to operate on May 28 before full services resume the following week.

Meanwhile, he said the Osun State Government will operate its annual free Sallah train service on the narrow gauge corridor for indigenes traveling home for the celebration.

The special train, he said, will depart Iddo Station in Lagos on May 26, while the return journey from Osogbo to Lagos is scheduled for May 28.

Unyimadu said the service, sponsored by the Osun State Government through an arrangement with the NRC, is designed to ease travel for residents during the festive season.

The NRC reaffirmed its commitment to safe and efficient rail transportation, wishing passengers a peaceful Sallah celebration.