By Chiazo Ogbolu | Naija247news | Lagos | October 26, 2025
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has announced that passenger operations on the Warri–Itakpe Train Service (WITS) will officially resume on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, following a temporary suspension for maintenance and safety upgrades.
In a statement released on Sunday in Lagos, the Managing Director of NRC, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, confirmed that the brief suspension was necessary to undertake critical track repairs, rolling stock maintenance, and system checks aimed at ensuring passenger safety, reliability, and comfort.
“The temporary suspension was necessary to carry out critical repairs, maintenance, and system checks on the track and rolling stock to ensure the comfort, reliability, and safety of passengers,” Opeifa stated.
Online Ticket Sales Reopen Monday
According to the NRC boss, the online ticketing portal — https://nrc-fane.ng — will reopen by noon on Monday, allowing passengers to book tickets at least 48 hours ahead of the service restart.
He advised travelers to secure tickets early via the online platform or at designated train stations to avoid last-minute rushes.
Operational Details
Opeifa revealed that the resumed operations would begin with seven coaches — including six standard class coaches and one business class coach — offering both affordable and premium travel options.
He added that a new temporary timetable would be released on Monday, incorporating speed restrictions and enhanced monitoring protocols to ensure maximum operational safety.
“The corporation sincerely apologises to its esteemed passengers and stakeholders for the inconveniences experienced during the suspension period and appreciates their patience and understanding,” Opeifa said.
Renewed Commitment to Safe Rail Services
The NRC Managing Director reaffirmed the corporation’s commitment to delivering safe, efficient, and reliable rail services on the Warri–Itakpe corridor — a critical route linking Nigeria’s southern commercial hub with the central industrial belt.
“We are fully committed to ensuring a better passenger experience as operations resume,” he assured.
Sub Zero ✔
Godwin Okafor is the Publisher & CEO of Naija247news Media Group LLC, an independent investigative news platform delivering accurate, data-driven reporting on Nigerian and global politics, economy, finance, and business. Founded in October 2010, Naija247news specializes in developmental journalism, providing timely insights and analysis to readers across Nigeria and the diaspora.
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