The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) will implement a revised and expanded timetable for the Abuja-Kaduna Train Service (AKTS) from March 6, 2026, directly responding to sustained high passenger demand on the critical rail corridor connecting Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory with Kaduna State.
The new schedule, confirmed in an official statement by Chief Public Relations Officer Callistus Unyimadu, increases service frequency across several weekdays to provide commuters with more flexible travel options. Under the revised plan, Tuesdays and Thursdays will see two daily trips: departures from Idu Station at 8:45 a.m. and returns from Rigasa Station at 2:30 p.m. The schedule expands to three services on Fridays, Sundays, Saturdays, and Mondays, with specific departure times varying by day and direction, including a consistent stop at Kubwa Station.
This expansion marks a significant operational recovery for the AKTS, one of Nigeria’s busiest rail routes. The corridor has faced major disruptions in recent years, notably a bomb blast in March 2022 and a derailment in August 2025. These incidents temporarily reduced the available rolling stock, forced speed restrictions, and cut the number of daily trips. The NRC stated that improved stability on the line, coupled with unwavering public patronage, now enables the corporation to restore and enhance service capacity.
The announcement underscores the NRC’s focus on bolstering reliability and passenger experience across its network. With the new timetable, the corporation aims to align operations more closely with commuter travel patterns, effectively managing demand on this vital transit link. Passengers are advised to familiarise themselves with the updated schedule to plan their journeys accordingly.
The expansion of the Abuja-Kaduna service is a notable development in Nigeria’s railway sector, highlighting a move towards operational normalization after security and infrastructure setbacks. It reflects an effort to solidify rail as a dependable alternative for inter-city travel in the region, with potential implications for reducing road traffic congestion between the two hubs. The NRC’s ability to maintain this expanded schedule will be a key indicator of its long-term service resilience.
