The Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC) initiated e-ticketing services for the Lagos-Ibadan and Itakpe-Warri train routes on Wednesday, a move aimed at enhancing transportation efficiency through technology.

The e-ticketing system was officially launched by the Minister of Transportation, Sai’du Alkali, in Abuja.

Minister Alkali stressed that the e-ticketing system’s introduction is a significant step toward eradicating ticket racketeering and aligns with the government’s commitment to zero tolerance for corruption.

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He also expressed optimism about the system’s potential to increase revenue, citing a notable boost in earnings from the Itakpe-Warri route in anticipation of the e-ticketing system’s deployment.

While experts in the technology sector have praised the initiative, they underscore the importance of raising awareness to mitigate cybersecurity risks.

It is essential to educate Nigerians on how to use the e-ticketing system and differentiate between genuine and counterfeit tickets to foster confidence in the new payment method.

Oluseyi Akindeinde, the Founder of Hyperspace Technologies, suggested employing various awareness strategies, including radio jingles, television demonstrations, and extensive marketing campaigns to promote knowledge about the e-ticketing system and ticket authenticity.

Chukwuka Madumere, a Cybersecurity Analyst at SAP, highlighted the significance of e-ticketing in enhancing the efficiency and security of rail transportation.

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He emphasized the need for vigilance and awareness to ensure the successful implementation of the system.

Last month, the NRC revealed that nine of its officials were implicated in ticket racketeering at the Ibadan railway station.

The Managing Director, Fidet Okharia, assured that measures would be put in place to prevent individuals without tickets from accessing the departure lounge before boarding the train.

The contract for the Warri-Itakpe rail line was awarded to Fare Solution Ltd., while the Lagos-Ibadan rail line contract was assigned to Global Software and Digital Solutions.

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The Federal Executive Council approved the e-ticketing contracts for both rail routes in early 2023, with a total budget of N1.96 billion allocated for these projects.

To book a train on the website, a National Identification Number (NIN) is required, and payment is expected to be made through a debit card via the Flutterwave website after booking a train.