Revived train service eases transportation burden in Nigeria's Plateau State

Nigeria’s Plateau State has revived an intra-city train service to offer cheaper public transport. The move comes amid soaring fuel prices after the federal government scrapped fuel subsidies in 2023, pushing up bus fares and straining household budgets.

Authorities in Nigeria’s Plateau State have brought an old intra-city rail line back into operation in a bid to provide affordable transportation, following a nationwide spike in fuel prices.

The initiative comes after the federal government ended fuel subsidies in 2023, prompting widespread hikes in transport fares.

Officials said bus fares in the state have risen by over 90%, leaving many residents struggling to commute. The revived train service, which currently runs four trips daily, is expected to reduce the financial pressure on households and improve mobility within the city.

Transport officials also indicated plans to expand the train route to rural communities. The goal, they said, is to support local farmers by offering a more cost-effective way to move agricultural produce to markets.

Work is underway to repair additional sections of the railway line, with the state government aiming to increase coverage and boost local economic activity.

As the country continues to adjust to post-subsidy realities, authorities in Plateau State say the renewed rail system could become a model for other regions facing similar transport challenges.

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