Several passengers were injured on Monday after a train travelling from Abuja to Kaduna derailed following a collision along the route.
The incident was confirmed by the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Kayode Opeifa, who spoke on the development on Monday.
According to Opeifa, the train encountered a problem near the Asham area during the journey, leading to the derailment and resulting in injuries to several passengers on board.
“It is confirmed that our Abuja–Kaduna train had an incident at Asham. Passengers were injured while an investigation is ongoing into the exact cause of the incident,” he said.
The NRC chief clarified that, as of the time the report was filed, no fatalities had been recorded. However, passengers who sustained injuries during the incident were promptly transported back to the Idu Railway Station, where they received medical attention.
Emergency response teams and railway officials were said to have acted quickly to manage the situation and assist affected passengers.
The Abuja–Kaduna rail line is one of Nigeria’s busiest and most strategic railway routes, serving thousands of commuters and travellers daily between the Federal Capital Territory and Kaduna State. The line has become particularly important for passengers seeking a safer and faster alternative to road travel along the Abuja–Kaduna highway.
Officials of the Nigerian Railway Corporation said a full investigation had been launched to determine the precise cause of the collision and subsequent derailment. Authorities are expected to examine technical factors, operational procedures and possible external causes as part of the inquiry.
While the extent of the injuries sustained by passengers has not yet been fully disclosed, railway officials have assured the public that all affected individuals are receiving the necessary medical care.
The NRC also indicated that further updates would be provided as the investigation progresses and more information becomes available.
The incident has raised fresh concerns about rail safety in Nigeria, particularly on high-traffic routes such as the Abuja–Kaduna corridor, which remains a vital transport link between northern Nigeria and the nation’s capital.
