By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
A Lagos-based content creator and video editor, Mary Akinsade known on social media as @marianoreeledit, has shared a glowing review of the Lagos–Ibadan train service, describing the experience as seamless, efficient and comparable to international standards.
The creative professional, who identifies as a Meta ads expert and brand strategist operating in Lagos, recently boarded the Lagos–Ibadan train and documented her journey, explaining how the service operates, what passengers should expect and why she would definitely use it again.
According to her, the train runs twice daily at 8am and 4pm and offers commuters a structured, time-conscious travel option between the two cities.
“I boarded the Lagos–Ibadan train, and will I definitely do it again? Yes. Of course,” she said, rating the overall experience “10/10.”
She described the ride as comfortable, fast, stress-free and neat, noting that the train system appeared automated.
However, she cautioned passengers to be alert during stopovers, as the train halts for only about four minutes at each station to pick up and drop off passengers.
“The train only stops for about four minutes. If you’re not fast enough, you might not alight until the next station,” she explained.
Beyond punctuality, she highlighted onboard amenities that, in her view, enhance passenger comfort.
Overhead compartments are available for luggage storage, similar to what is obtainable on airplanes.
She also drew attention to the air-conditioning system, describing it as notably cold.
“Let’s talk about the air conditioner. It was chilling. It honestly felt like a mini workspace,” she said.
For freelancers and remote workers, she noted that the train provides an enabling environment to work during transit, revealing that each seat comes with an inbuilt mini desk.
“For my babes and boos that are freelancers, you can comfortably work on your clients’ projects. There’s an inbuilt mini desk,” she added.
Passengers, she further observed, can purchase food onboard, as staff of Tantalizers move through the coaches selling meals and pastries.
Providing additional guidance, she explained that from Ibadan, the train passes through Abeokuta before entering Lagos, with only a limited number of stops.
Consequently, she advised intending passengers to confirm that the route aligns with their destination before booking.
“From Ibadan, the train passes through Abeokuta before entering Lagos. There are only a few stops, so do your research to be sure it works for your destination,” she said.
Reflecting on the broader significance of the service, the content creator described the railway system as evidence of what effective leadership can achieve.
“This railway corporation is proof that Nigeria can work if our leaders are willing,” she stated, adding that the experience “genuinely felt like I wasn’t in Nigeria.”
