By: Joy Musa Kefas
A Kaduna-bound passenger train operated by the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) derailed on Tuesday morning at approximately 11:09 a.m. The incident occurred at Kilometer 49 between Kubwa and Asham stations, along the busy Abuja–Kaduna rail corridor.
The NRC Managing Director, Mr. Kayode Opeifa, confirmed the derailment in an official statement, noting that the affected service was part of the Abuja-Kaduna Train Service (AKTS). Emergency rescue teams, medical personnel, and nearby hospitals were swiftly mobilized to the scene to provide immediate assistance to passengers.
Security operatives have also been deployed to the site, ensuring the safety of all passengers and facilitating ongoing efforts to transport them back to Abuja safely. As of press time, no casualties have been officially reported, though eyewitness accounts described scenes of panic as several coaches went off track.
The cause of the derailment remains under investigation, and NRC officials have assured the public that a full inquiry will be conducted. The corporation has urged passengers and the general public to remain calm and bear with them during this period of disruption.
This incident adds to growing concerns over rail safety in Nigeria, particularly along the Abuja–Kaduna corridor, which has experienced multiple disruptions in recent years.
Further updates are expected as rescue operations continue and authorities assess the extent of the damage.
