BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has released its preliminary findings on the derailment of train number AK1, operated by the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), which occurred on the Abuja–Kaduna rail line on 26 August 2025.
According to the Bureau, the incident happened at Km 49, within the Kubwa–Asham corridor in Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The train, powered by locomotive CDD5c2 2701, departed Idu Station in Abuja at 9:45 a.m. en route to Rigasa Station, Kaduna, with 618 persons onboard, including NRC crew, security personnel, and service staff.
“Shortly after passing a manually operated switch point at Asham Station, the forward locomotive and adjoining coaches derailed and overturned at about 11:09 a.m.,” the report noted.
While no fatalities were recorded, 21 passengers sustained injuries of varying degrees. They were promptly attended to by emergency responders and evacuated for medical treatment.
The Bureau explained that the preliminary report contains “initial findings and recommendations” but cautioned that the document is not conclusive.
“This report represents early findings and is subject to further analysis. The final report will present detailed conclusions and additional recommendations to enhance rail safety in Nigeria,” Mrs. Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance at NSIB, said.
The Bureau further disclosed that the preliminary document has been made available for public access on its official website, underscoring its commitment to transparency and safety improvements.
Rail safety analysts say the incident highlights persistent challenges along Nigeria’s busiest passenger rail corridor, which in recent years has been a vital alternative to the often insecure Abuja–Kaduna highway.
The NRC has faced public pressure to strengthen safety protocols, particularly after the March 2022 terrorist attack on the same corridor that left multiple casualties.
Industry experts suggest that NSIB’s final report will be critical in shaping reforms and reinforcing safety measures, especially around manually operated points and switch operations along the track.
For now, stakeholders await the Bureau’s full investigation, which is expected to recommend systemic safeguards to prevent a recurrence.
