President Bola Tinubu has authorized free train rides across Nigeria from December 20, 2024, to January 5, 2025, to reduce transportation costs during the Christmas and New Year festivities.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made the announcement in Abuja on Monday.
Idris highlighted the government’s commitment to easing the financial burden on Nigerians during the holiday season.
He recalled that similar initiatives were implemented during the 2023 Christmas and Sallah celebrations, emphasizing the administration’s ongoing dedication to addressing transportation challenges.
“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.
“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,” Idris explained.
Last year, President Tinubu approved a 50% discount on interstate road travel and made train rides completely free for Nigerians heading home for the holidays.
The initiative, originally planned for a limited period, was later extended until January 7 to accommodate more travelers.
The federal government reiterated that the President’s decision was aimed at ensuring citizens could travel freely within the country without being burdened by high transport costs during the festive season.
KanyiDaily recalls that Nollywood actor, Yul Edochie recently praised President Bola Tinubu’s administration for what he sees as significant improvements in Nigeria’s power supply.