The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) says its investigation into the train derailment that occurred along the Warri–Itakpe rail corridor on Monday, June 8, 2026, has made significant progress with the retrieval of critical evidence and the completion of key on-site investigative activities.
This was contained in a statement issued by the NSIB’s Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs Funke Adebayo-Arowojobe.
According to the statement, following notification of the accident, the Director-General of the NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Jr, led the Bureau’s investigation team to the accident scene to commence a full-scale inquiry into the incident.
He was accompanied by the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Mr Kayode Opeifa, and the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Transportation, Engr Funsho Adebiyi, as part of a coordinated response involving relevant transportation stakeholders and authorities.
At the scene, investigators documented the accident site, examined the affected rail equipment and infrastructure, gathered operational and technical information, and interviewed personnel connected with the operation of the train.
The recovered evidence, including witness testimonies, operational records, maintenance documents, and other relevant materials, will undergo detailed analysis by the Bureau’s specialists.
Speaking at the accident scene, Captain Badeh Jr. expressed the Bureau’s condolences to those affected by the tragedy.
“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the families who have lost loved ones, those who sustained injuries, and every passenger affected by this tragic occurrence.
“We understand the pain and uncertainty such an event brings, and we want the public to be assured that the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has commenced a thorough and evidence-based investigation.
“We will follow the facts wherever they lead and generate actionable safety recommendations aimed at systematically addressing identified risks and preventing a recurrence on our railway network,” he said.
As part of the visit, Captain Badeh Jr. demonstrated the Bureau’s commitment to the human dimension of transportation safety by personally meeting with passengers affected by the derailment.
He commiserated with the families of those who lost their lives, conveying the condolences of the NSIB and the Federal Government. The Director-General also visited injured victims receiving treatment at various primary healthcare centres and hospitals, where he offered words of comfort, support, and reassurance.
The Bureau said it is working closely with the Nigerian Railway Corporation, the Federal Ministry of Transportation, the Federal Ministry of Health, and other relevant federal and state agencies throughout the investigation process.
NSIB also acknowledged and appreciated the cooperation of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, the Federal Ministry of Transportation, and the Nigerian Air Force, whose support facilitated the efficient mobilisation of resources and access to operational facilities and information required by the investigative team.
The Bureau reiterated that its investigation is strictly safety-focused and non-punitive.
According to the statement, the purpose of the investigation is not to apportion blame or determine civil or criminal liability, but to establish the circumstances surrounding the occurrence, identify causal and contributing factors, and recommend measures to enhance the safety of rail transportation operations in Nigeria.
Upon completion of the investigation, the Bureau will publish its findings and issue safety recommendations aimed at strengthening rail transport safety and reducing the likelihood of similar incidents in the future.
 says its investigation into the train derailment that occurred along the Warri–Itakpe rail corridor on Monday, June 8, 2026, has made significant progress with the retrieval of critical evidence and the completion of key on-site investigative activities.){kind=link}