The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has provided clarity on the recent delay in the Kaduna–Abuja rail corridor, citing safety concerns as the primary reason for the disruption.

According to the NRC, a backup engine on the Abuja–Kaduna Train Service (AKTS) began losing power shortly after departure. As a precaution, the train was returned to Rigasa, Kaduna, despite being less than 30 minutes into the journey. Service resumed around 4:00 p.m., with the train arriving at Idu Station, Abuja, about 80 minutes behind schedule. Passengers were kept informed via on-board announcements and updates at Rigasa station.

Dr. Kayode Opeifa, Managing Director of NRC, apologized for the inconvenience and rejected claims that passengers were stranded, describing such reports as misleading. He emphasized that passenger safety remains the corporation’s top priority.

The AKTS service had been suspended after a derailment near Asham on August 26, 2025. NRC confirmed that all derailed coaches and locomotives have been recovered and that repairs on the main line have been completed, with secondary tracks still undergoing maintenance. An internal investigation cited human error, including excessive speed and misuse of the emergency brake, as the cause of the derailment.

Passenger services officially resumed on October 1, 2025, with trains stopping at Kubwa and Rigasa. NRC has also designated Wednesdays for route maintenance to ensure safety.

Of the 583 passengers affected during the derailment, 512 have received full ticket refunds, and 22 injured passengers received medical attention. NRC announced that all affected passengers are eligible for one free ride before December 31, 2025.

The NRC reiterated its commitment to safe, reliable, and timely train services as it works to restore confidence in the Kaduna–Abuja rail corridor. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.