The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched an e-ticketing solution following numerous complaints by commuters about ticket racketeering at the Abuja-Kaduna train stations.
The Minister of Transportation, Hon. Chibuike Ameachi, disclosed this Thursday at the launch of the e- ticketing online solution held virtually in his office in Abuja, a statement by Eric Ojiekwe, Director, PPR, noted.
Amaechi further informed that the online ticketing which marks the beginning of automation of ticket sales in all major stations in Abuja- Kaduna train service is in line with global world best practices and will enhance efficiency, save time and promote accountability while also reducing leakage and promoting economic growth.
The Minister further stated that it is a Public Private Partnership (PPP) valued at N900 million, of which the concessionaire ( SecureID) will provide, then run it for 10 years to recoup its investment before reverting ownership to the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC).
Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the Governing Board, NRC, Ibrahim Alhassan Musa, said the e-ticketing solution finally brings to an end the persistent allegation of ticket racketeering at the train Station.
The Chief Executive Officer, Secure ID Solutions, Kofo Akinkugbe, in her remarks, observed that the launch heralds the nation’s entry into the new age of multimodal ticketing in public transportation while allowing for passengers’ convenience, efficiency and accountability for operators and provide data for government for better decision making.
Kofo further stated that the e- ticketing solution after a successful pilot program as of today, has issued 25,000 tickets online and informed intending commuters on the Abuja-Kaduna rail corridor to access the e- ticketing solution via web by visiting www.nrc.tps.ng. Other avenues are: downloading the application from Google Play store or Apple Store, POS and Cash payments at the counter.
According to her, all solutions offer an increased customer experience such as convenient ticket purchase 24 hours a day, seat selection, secure online payments, no physical interaction, amongst others.
The online launch was witnessed by members of the Governing Board of NRC and the Director Rail Transport Service, Federal Ministry of Transportation, Engr M.T Babakobi, who represented the Permanent Secretary.
