NRC Shuts Down Warri-Itakpe Train Over Technical Failures

DDM News

The Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC) has suspended operations on the Warri-Itakpe rail corridor following what it described as “unforeseen technical challenges.”

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that in a statement issued on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, the NRC confirmed that the service had been abruptly cancelled since Tuesday, July 15, and would remain suspended until further notice.

The rail line, a vital transportation link across Delta, Edo, and Kogi States, has seen rising patronage in recent years, both for passenger movement and freight logistics.

The NRC explained that the suspension was necessary to enable urgent engineering work and ensure passenger safety before resuming services.

“This suspension is necessary to allow our engineering team to urgently address and resolve the issues,” the NRC said.

The statement added, “Please be assured that efforts are ongoing to restore services promptly and safely.

We understand the inconvenience this may cause and sincerely apologise to all our valued passengers. Your safety and comfort remain our top priority.”

The NRC urged passengers to remain patient and monitor its verified platforms for updates regarding the status of the Warri-Itakpe Train Service.

While the agency expressed regret over the disruption, it did not reveal the specific technical faults that led to the emergency shutdown.

The Warri-Itakpe railway line forms part of Nigeria’s standard gauge railway infrastructure and was revitalised during former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration as part of a broader push to expand rail connectivity across the country.

Commissioned initially for industrial freight use, the route later expanded to include passenger services and has become a key transport artery, especially for communities lacking functional air or good road access.

Since resumption of full operations, it has helped decongest roads and reduced travel time between the southern and north-central regions of Nigeria.

Commuters who rely on the route for regular travel between Warri and Itakpe expressed disappointment over the sudden halt in service but welcomed the NRC’s emphasis on safety.

Transport analysts have warned that Nigeria’s growing dependence on rail infrastructure must be matched by sustained maintenance culture and investment in safety systems.

DDM will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as new information emerges from the Nigeria Railway Corporation.

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