NRC Completes Coaches, Locos Recovery As Track Repair Nears Completion

…Says Human Error Caused Abuja-Kaduna Derailment

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has announced substantial progress in its recovery, repair, and safety efforts following the derailment of the Abuja–Kaduna train on August 26, 2025, at Asham.

It confirmed that its team of engineers has successfully re-railed and recovered all coaches and locomotives involved in the incident even as the assets have since been moved to designated workshops for comprehensive assessment and further technical work.

In a statement signed by Kayode Opeifa, managing director and chief executive of NRC, he said that, the Corporation’s team of engineers have successfully repaired the main line to a level that allows for safety of resumption of operations.

While train services will recommence, work on the secondary track will continue simultaneously. During this period, the second line will remain out of use until all necessary repairs are fully completed.

The engineers have now commenced a comprehensive safety and infrastructure assessment to ensure that all aspects of the corridor meet the highest standards of safety, durability, and reliability before operations resume.

This phase includes a thorough evaluation of the repaired section and other critical infrastructure along the route. NRC emphasized that, the resumption of operations will only take place after all necessary technical inspections, tests, and certifications are concluded.

“Safety remains our top priority,” the Corporation stated, reaffirming its determination to restore public confidence in rail services.

“On passenger welfare, we confirm that out of the 618 passengers on board the affected train, 22 sustained injuries and are at various stages of recovery. We have successfully contacted 512 passengers, while 71 are yet to be reached due to various reasons ranging from not responding, wrong numbers, and unavailability”. Opeifa said.

NRC has also completed an in-house investigation into the incident, with management accepting all recommendations of the internal investigation team.

While awaiting the outcome of the committee set up by the Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Alkali, as well as the findings of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), NRC states clearly that the result of the investigation carried out points to human error, excessive speeding and misapplication of the emergency braking system.

An official announcement on the resumption of train services on the corridor will be made very soon.
While acknowledging the inconvenience caused, the NRC expressed deep appreciation to its passengers and the general public for their patience, support, and understanding throughout the recovery process.

MIKE OCHONMA
EDITOR