Several months after the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) suspended commercial services on the Warri-Itakpe train route, the corporation, at the weekend, announced it would resume operations again on October 29.

In April, the NRC announced the suspension of the service after the train developed a major fault and abandoned hundreds of commuters in the middle of nowhere. They were later evacuated after a long wait.

In a statement over the weekend, the NRC stated that the suspension was necessary to carry out repairs, maintenance, and system checks on the track and rolling stock to guarantee the comfort, reliability, and safety of passengers.

Chief Public Relations Officer of the NRC, Callistus Unyimadu, in the statement, stated that the online booking portal would open by 12 noon on Monday, 27th October 2025, about 48 hours before resumption. Passengers are advised to book early through https://nrc-fane.ng or at designated stations.

He disclosed that operations will commence with seven coaches — six standard class and one business class — while a temporary timetable incorporating speed restrictions for safety monitoring would be released on the same day.

“The online booking portal will be opened by 12 noon on Monday, October 27, 2025, about 48 hours ahead of resumption,” the statement said, adding: “Passengers are encouraged to secure their tickets early through the portal or at designated stations.

“The corporation apologised to its passengers and stakeholders for the inconveniences experienced during the period of suspension and appreciated their patience and understanding.”

NRC’s Managing Director, Dr Kayode Opeifa, assured the travelling public that the agency had renewed its dedication to “safe, reliable, and efficient service.