By Safiyat Muhammed | The Bureau News
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has announced the resumption of the Abuja-Kaduna passenger train service next week, following a one-month suspension caused by track damage at Asham. This development, confirmed in a statement signed by NRC’s Chief Public Relations Officer Callistus Unyimadu, brings relief to thousands of commuters who depend on the busy corridor.
Repairs Completed, Safety Guaranteed
The service was halted on August 26, 2025, after a derailment incident forced the NRC to suspend operations. According to the corporation, extensive repair works and rigorous safety checks have now been completed. “We have restored both the infrastructure and rolling stock to the highest safety standards in line with global best practices,” the statement read.
Refunds and Passenger Welfare
As part of its commitment to passenger welfare, the NRC confirmed that 512 of the 583 passengers affected by the incident have already received refunds, with efforts ongoing to reimburse the remaining passengers. The corporation expressed appreciation to commuters for their patience and understanding during the suspension period, reiterating that passenger safety and comfort remain top priorities.
Federal Support and Stakeholder Cooperation
The NRC acknowledged the vital support of the Federal Ministry of Transportation, security agencies, the media, and other stakeholders in facilitating a swift recovery process. Official details on the exact resumption date and updated schedules will be announced in the coming days.
➕ Click to Read NRC Safety Investigation Findings
The preliminary investigation by the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau revealed that poor maintenance and a faulty track switch were major contributors to the incident. Several damaged sleepers had been patched instead of being properly replaced, forcing manual operation of the switch. The point clip used for securing it later broke, leading to compromised track alignment and eventual derailment.
The report also highlighted gaps in personnel training, noting that many NRC staff had only undergone initial training with no refresher courses. Furthermore, access to spare parts from the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) was reported to be limited, raising concerns about operational readiness.
Read more insights on railway safety reforms via Punch Nigeria and stay tuned to The Bureau News for Nigeria News Today updates.
Looking Ahead
Passengers eager for the return of the service are advised to monitor announcements for new train schedules. The Bureau News will continue to provide exclusive coverage on the Abuja-Kaduna railway corridor and broader Nigeria News Today developments in the transportation sector.