By Ada Nkong
The FG has flagged off e -tickeing for the Lagos -Ibadan,Warri-Itakpe rail roads.
The minister of transportation Alkali Saidu who spoke at the flag off said the move was to end racketeering and ensure security of Rail transport users.
The Lagos-Ibadan and Warri-Itakpe rail routes flagged off by the last administration while it has helped solve transportation problems has been marred with reports of racketeering and security issues.
To tackle this problems, the minister of transportation Alkali Saidu today flagged off e -tickeing on both corridors.
Speaking at the flag off, the minister highlighted the benefits of the move.
According to him,” it will make it easier for our passengers to get tickets, the insurance cover of our passengers on board the train, it will help to stop racketeering “.
On her part,the permanent secretary,Dr Magdalene Ajani shed light on the history of the E -ticketing.
“The contract was a concession, and Nigeria did not pay a dime. The private individuals brought their money to get this done, and they will recuperate their money over ten years”
The MD NRC Engr Fidet Okhiria who said due process has been followed and from 1st November,passengers can purchase tickets from the comfort of their homes expressed joy at the take off of the E-ticketing.
” We thank Nigerians for being patient with us, federal is not state that can start today and end today. It is better we delay than make mistakes “
The Lagos -Ibadan is being handled by global software digital solutions while Warri itakpe is handled by FANE ticketing system.
Tickets will be available on the website, via app and later on by card. For now though there will be point of sales purchase at the stations . Tickets can be purchased for a maximum of three persons per NIN 48 hours before train takes off.
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