Links Crash to Excessive Speeding, Emergency Brake Failure
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) says substantial progress has been made in the recovery, repair, and safety assessment following the derailment of the Abuja–Kaduna train on 26 August 2025, at Asham, Kaduna State.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by its Managing Director, Dr Kayode Opeifa, the NRC confirmed that its engineers had successfully re-railed and recovered all the coaches and locomotives involved in the incident. The assets, he said, had since been moved to designated workshops for comprehensive technical assessment.
According to the statement, the main line has been repaired to a level that allows for the safe resumption of train services. However, work is still ongoing on the secondary track, which will remain closed until all necessary repairs are completed.
“Our team of engineers has successfully repaired the main line to a level that allows us to safely resume 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 statement read.
The NRC disclosed that a comprehensive safety and infrastructure assessment has begun to ensure the corridor meets the highest standards of safety, durability, and reliability. This phase includes evaluating the repaired section and other critical infrastructure along the route.
“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 stressed.
The agency added that an official announcement on the resumption of full services would be made soon.
On passenger welfare, the NRC revealed that out of the 618 passengers on board the affected train, 22 sustained injuries and are at various stages of recovery. It said it had successfully contacted 512 passengers, while 71 were yet to be reached due to reasons such as non-response, wrong numbers, or unavailability.
The Corporation also confirmed that an internal investigation into the incident had been concluded, with all recommendations accepted by management.
While awaiting the findings of the Ministerial Committee set up by the Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Alkali, NRC said its investigation pointed to human error.
“We wish to state clearly that our investigation points to human error — excessive speeding and misapplication of the emergency braking system,” the statement added.
The Corporation expressed deep appreciation to passengers and the general public for their patience and support. It also thanked media houses for providing timely and accurate updates, and security agencies for protecting lives and property during recovery operations.
“We are proud of the professionalism exhibited by our engineering and technical team, who have demonstrated extraordinary competence,” the statement said.
Reaffirming its commitment, the NRC pledged to continue delivering safe, efficient, and dependable rail services “in line with Nigeria’s broader transportation modernisation agenda.”
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