The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has suspended all train services on the Abuja–Kaduna corridor until further notice, following the derailment of one of its trains on Tuesday morning.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja, NRC Managing Director Kayode Opeifa confirmed the suspension, stressing that safety investigations are already underway.
According to Opeifa, technical teams from NRC, alongside experts from the Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) and other relevant agencies, are currently at the site of the derailment to determine the cause.
He further dismissed claims that NRC trains were poorly maintained, stating that the suspension was a precautionary measure.
“We have already initiated refunds for all affected passengers. The safety of Nigerians remains our top priority,” Opeifa said.
The NRC chief also visited some passengers who were evacuated to Asham Station and the Idu Train Station, Abuja, assuring them of the corporation’s support.
While the exact number of passengers on board has not yet been confirmed, Opeifa said at least six passengers sustained minor injuries. All were promptly treated and discharged.
NSIB Begins Investigation
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has launched a full-scale probe into the derailment.
In a statement, Bimbo Oladeji, NSIB’s Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, said initial findings confirm that six passengers were injured but no fatalities were recorded.
A go-team of investigators has since been deployed to the site to gather evidence, liaise with stakeholders, and examine possible causes.
NSIB’s Director General, Alex Badeh Jr., expressed sympathy to those affected:
“We deeply sympathise with all who sustained injuries. Our investigators are on ground to uncover the root cause of this derailment.
The Bureau remains committed to ensuring safer rail transport for Nigerians through transparent and independent investigations.”
The Incident
The derailment occurred at about 11:09 a.m., between Kubwa Station and Asham Station, shortly after the train departed Abuja for Kaduna.
Eyewitnesses described the moment as chaotic, with passengers scrambling for safety amid panic and confusion.
Military personnel were later deployed to secure the site and assist in evacuating stranded travelers.
The NSIB said its investigation will not only determine the immediate cause of the derailment but also analyze underlying systemic issues, with recommendations to prevent future incidents.
The Bureau assured that periodic updates will be provided to the public as the investigation progresses.
For now, commuters on the busy Abuja–Kaduna corridor will have to seek alternative means of transportation, as NRC has not indicated when services will resume.
Key Facts at a Glance:
Incident Time: 11:09 a.m., Tuesday, August 26, 2025
Location: Between Kubwa and Asham Stations
Casualties: 6 injured, treated, no deaths
Action Taken: NRC suspends Abuja–Kaduna operations, refunds initiated
Investigation: Ongoing by NSIB with full technical team
