I finally got around to taking the Abuja–Kaduna train, and since I couldn’t find many firsthand writeups that weren’t news reports, I figured I’d share what the whole process was like — from booking tickets to the ride itself.
Getting to the Station
I booked a Bolt from Lugbe and got dropped off under the Carwash Bridge. The driver parked across the road, which meant I had to cross on foot (not something you do often in Abuja).
I got there around 7:30 AM to catch the 10:00 AM train. The Abuja–Kaduna line runs four times daily (you can check schedules here).
Tip: You don’t really need to be there 2 hours early, but tickets sell out quickly, so book online in advance if you can.
First Impressions
The station is inside Idu community, so you drive in a bit before reaching it. Unless you’re a “VIP,” you’ll park and walk to the terminal.
Around 8:00 AM, a queue had already formed outside the still-closed doors. A random guy offered to carry my bag for a fee (I declined), and the scramble for tickets started as soon as doors opened.
Why I Chose the Train Instead of the Road
Security – The Abuja–Kaduna highway has had too many kidnapping incidents. The train feels much safer.
Price – An economy ticket is ₦3,500 (~$2.30 / £1.65), way cheaper than a private taxi.
Convenience – It’s smoother, less stressful, and the ride is comfortable compared to Nigeria’s rough roads.
Time-wise, it’s about the same as driving, but the experience is better.
Tickets and Security
I bought an Economy ticket. They officially ask for ID, though it wasn’t enforced that day — I’d recommend bringing one just in case.
Security was basic: bags through an X-ray machine, then a quick wave-in.
Waiting Area
The hall had families grouped together, kids running around, and solo travelers like me just scrolling on their phones.
Economy passengers wait downstairs.
First Class has its own lounge upstairs.
Bring a jacket — the hall is freezing.
Network is spotty, so bring a book or download something.
Boarding and the Ride
At around 9:45 AM, everyone rushed toward the red tape leading to the platform. Staff checked tickets before letting people through.
There’s an elevator — USE IT if you have bags. I didn’t, and climbing the stairs with luggage nearly killed me.
My seat was in Coach 12, Seat 45 (Economy). It had:
The seats were comfortable enough (green fabric), and the AC came on almost immediately. Heads up: it gets cold very fast.
The train left a few minutes past 10:00 AM.
Note: Latecomers or those boarding at Kubwa often stand the whole way because tickets sell out.
On the Way
The ride was smooth. I was facing backward, which felt like we were moving in reverse the whole time.
We passed fields, streams, and fences. Staff walked through punching tickets — don’t lose yours. If you’re caught without one, the fine is steep.
Arrival in Kaduna
We arrived at Rigasa Station around 12:22 PM. People spilled out to meet family, grab cabs, or walk out to the roadside. I had to walk a bit before finding a ride.
The train stayed put, waiting for the next round of passengers.
Final Tips if You’re Taking the Train 🚉
Arrive early or book online – Get there 1.5–2 hours ahead or buy online to guarantee a seat.
Bring a jacket – The hall and train AC will freeze you.
Use the elevator – Save your energy if you have luggage.
Keep ID and ticket handy – You may need ID to buy and definitely need your ticket on board.
Watch your step – There’s a noticeable gap between the platform and the train.
Entertainment – Network is patchy; bring offline music, books, or Netflix downloads.
👉 TL;DR: Took the Abuja–Kaduna train. Smooth, safe, and cheap at ₦3,500 (~$2.30 / £1.65). Arrive early, bring a jacket, and don’t forget your ticket.
