NRC: Abuja–Kaduna train service disruption temporary

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has assured passengers that recent disruptions on the Abuja–Kaduna rail route are temporary and do not indicate neglect.

NRC spokesman Callistus Unyimadu made the statement on Tuesday in Lagos, responding to reports suggesting a decline in the train service.

“The Abuja–Kaduna corridor is a flagship service in Nigeria’s modern railway revival. Any disruption, no matter how minimal, is understandably felt by commuters,” Unyimadu said.

He acknowledged the inconvenience caused by a recent incident on August 26 that damaged Diesel Multiple Unit rolling stock, leading to a temporary reduction in service.

Unyimadu highlighted two major challenges faced by the railway.

The first was the March 2022 terrorist attack, which caused loss of lives and severe trauma.

In response, NRC strengthened safety measures, revised operating procedures, restricted late trips, and enhanced security collaborations with the armed forces and police.

The second setback was the recent derailment, which damaged several coaches and reduced the number of serviceable units for daily operations.

Repairs and refurbishments are ongoing, and additional coaches are being deployed to restore normal service frequency as soon as possible.

He emphasized that the disruptions reflect a phase of recovery and rebuilding, not a decline in NRC’s commitment.

Ongoing interventions include repairing damaged coaches, certifying them for safe return to service, temporarily reinforcing alternative rolling stock, and prioritizing security enhancements along the corridor.

Unyimadu reassured passengers that restoring multiple daily trips remains a top operational priority.