NRC Plans Fare Hike Amid Rising Operational Costs

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) is considering an upward review of passenger and freight tariffs in response to rising operational costs driven by increased fuel prices. This decision follows a temporary 50% fare discount introduced by the federal government during the Eid el-Kabir festival to alleviate transport costs.

NRC officials have indicated that the current fare structure is unsustainable due to escalating expenses related to fuel, maintenance, security, and spare parts. The corporation's operational costs have been significantly impacted, with diesel expenditures alone exceeding N1.2 billion as of April 2026.

The NRC operates three standard gauge corridors, including Abuja-Kaduna and Lagos-Ibadan, and is facing challenges from vandalism and theft, which further strain financial resources. Dr. Kayode Opeifa, the Managing Director of NRC, acknowledged the pressures from rising operational costs and assured that the corporation remains committed to providing affordable rail transport while exploring options to sustain operations without compromising public interest.