NRC Boosts Abuja–Kaduna Train Services with Additional Trips from March 6

By Onwe Wisdom, Pan Afric Reporters

In a major relief for commuters along the busy Abuja–Kaduna corridor, the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has announced an increase in the number of trips on the Abuja–Kaduna Train Service (AKTS), effective Friday, March 6, 2026, in response to growing passenger demand.

The Corporation said the expanded schedule is designed to provide more travel options, enhance operational flexibility, and strengthen service delivery on one of the country’s most patronized rail routes.

According to the press release issued in Abuja on March 3, 2026, the corridor had previously experienced operational disruptions following the March 28, 2022 bomb blast and the August 26, 2025 derailment. These incidents led to a reduction in available rolling stock from three to one, the introduction of Temporary Speed Restrictions (TSR) for safety, and a subsequent adjustment in the number of daily trips.

With stability now restored and some temporary speed restrictions earlier relaxed, the NRC said it has expanded services to better meet commuters’ expectations.

Revised Timetable

Under the new schedule:

• Tuesdays and Thursdays:
  The Idu–Rigasa service will depart Idu at 8:45 a.m. and return from Rigasa at 2:30 p.m.
• Fridays and Sundays:
  Three trips will operate, departing Idu at 7:45 a.m. and 3:15 p.m., and from Rigasa at 11:30 a.m.
• Saturdays and Mondays:
  Trains will depart Rigasa at 7:15 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., and from Idu at 11:00 a.m., with all services making scheduled stops at Kubwa.

The Corporation advised passengers to take note of the revised timetable and plan their journeys accordingly, reiterating its commitment to improving capacity, reliability, safety, and overall passenger experience across its network.

The announcement is expected to ease travel pressure on the corridor, which remains a critical transport link between the Federal Capital Territory and Kaduna State.