NRC considers raising train fares as fuel costs rise
The Nigerian Railway Corporation is considering increasing its passenger and freight fares due to rising operational costs. The move follows the end of a government train fare discount and comes as the corporation faces higher expenses for fuel, maintenance, security, and imported spare parts. Dr Kayode Opeifa, Managing Director of the NRC, acknowledged the financial pressures but assured that efforts would be made to keep rail transport affordable. The NRC operates several major train routes, including Abuja-Kaduna, Lagos-Ibadan, and Warri-Itakpe.
TLDR
- The NRC is reviewing its pricing structure as operational costs, especially for diesel, have surged.
- The fare increase would affect both passenger and cargo services across various routes.
- Rising costs are linked to fuel, maintenance, security, and the need for emergency repairs.
- Incidents of vandalism and attacks on infrastructure have further strained the corporation’s finances.
- Dr Kayode Opeifa stated that the NRC remains committed to affordable and reliable rail services in line with the government’s agenda.
