How to Book Train Ticket: Lagos to Abeokuta or Ibadan

Do you want to book a train ticket from Lago to Abeokuta or Ibadan or vice versa? 

The ticket booking process has evolved with the introduction of e-ticket booking platforms. The platform has made it a convenient process to book for tickets but it has not stopped the on-the-ground payment at train stations. The only thing to note about on-ground payment is that cash payments are no longer accepted. Travelers must use bank transfers or ATM cards for transactions.

This guide will walk you through the steps required to book ticket physically at the train station and also the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) e-ticketing platform, register, and book train tickets online for routes including Lagos, Abeokuta, and Ibadan.

Method 1 of 2: Booking ticket on e-ticketing platform

Step 1: Visit the website

To begin your journey, access the official e-ticketing platform at https://nrc.gsds.ng/login. Please ensure you are on the correct website to avoid scams.

Step 2: Register on Website

Passengers are required to register on the platform using their National Identification Numbers (NIN). This step is essential for security and identification purposes.

Step 3: Sign In

After successful registration, sign in to the platform using your email address and password. This will grant you access to the booking system.

Step 4: Select your journey

Choose your departure and arrival stations. You can book a one-way or round-trip ticket.

Step 5: Provide passenger details

Enter the necessary passenger information, including names, contact details, and any other required information.

Step 6: NIN requirement

 It’s important to note that your NIN is also required during the booking process.

Step 7: Select train and seats

Pick your desired train and seat(s) based on availability and your preferences.

Step 8: Payment

Once you’ve selected your train and seats, proceed to the payment step. The website will redirect you to a Flutterwave payment portal, where you can use your debit card to complete the transaction.

Method 2 of 2: Book ticket at the train station

The introduction of the e-ticketing platform has not stopped payment at the train station. However, cash payments are no longer accepted and you can only pay using bank transfer or your ATM card. 

Step 1: Arrive at the train station

Arrive at the train station at least an hour before your desired departure time. This helps you avoid long queues and ensures ticket availability. Head to the designated ticketing office or counter within the station. 

Inform the ticketing officer of your travel route (Lagos to Ibadan), preferred travel class (economy or first class), and the number of passengers.

Be ready to provide your National Identification Number (NIN) if required, as it may be necessary for passenger registration.

Step 2: Make payment for ticket

Since cash payments are no longer accepted, pay using your ATM card or via bank transfer, as directed by the station’s payment system.

After payment confirmation, the ticketing officer will issue your printed ticket. Verify the details, including travel date, time, and seat number, to avoid any discrepancies.

Step 3: Proceed to Boarding

Follow station announcements and display screens for boarding information. Present your ticket and valid ID when boarding the train.