President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved free train rides for Nigerians across the country from December 20, 2024, to January 5, 2025, as part of efforts to ease transportation costs during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

The announcement was made by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, while addressing State House correspondents after the final Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting of the year.

According to Idris, the initiative aims to cushion the impact of transportation expenses, particularly for vulnerable Nigerians traveling during the festive season.

The minister recalled that a similar initiative was introduced last year, which provided free train services and a 50% discount on road transportation from December 21, 2023, to January 4, 2024. That initiative was later extended to accommodate more Nigerians.

This year’s free train rides are expected to provide significant relief to Nigerians during the Yuletide period, ensuring easier and more affordable travel across the country.