 has commenced an investigation into a railway incident involving a passenger train operating on the Rigasa–Idu rail corridor.){kind=link}
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced an investigation into a railway incident involving a passenger train operating on the Rigasa–Idu rail corridor.
The incident occurred at approximately 09:16 hours along the Jere–Asham section near Asham Station in Kaduna State. The section of the track where the incident occurred is located on a downward gradient.
This was contained in a press statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance at the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, Mrs. Funke Arowojobe.
According to the Director, the train identified as KA2, departed Rigasa Railway Station in Kaduna at the commencement of its scheduled journey to Idu Station in Abuja. The train operated within its scheduled service window of 07:15 to 10:01 hours and arrived at Jere Station at 08:52 hours before departing again at 08:59 hours to continue its journey toward Abuja.
The Arowojobe further explained that upon arrival at Jere Station, a rear locomotive was attached to the train to provide additional operational support for the onward movement along the corridor.
Shortly after departing Jere Station, the rear locomotive became detached while the train proceeded along the downward gradient toward the Asham section.
The detached locomotive subsequently rolled forward and struck the rear portion of the train, resulting in a serious operational occurrence.
At the time of the incident, the train consisted of two locomotives positioned at the front and rear, one power car, two business class coaches, and six standard passenger coaches. The train was conveying a total of 429 passengers.
Onboard personnel included 46 crew members and 24 security personnel assigned to the service.
Although no fatalities were recorded, some passengers sustained injuries. Immediate response actions were initiated by personnel of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) and security personnel onboard the train. Medical personnel also provided first aid assistance to affected passengers.
Following the incident, the train proceeded to Idu Station in Abuja, where it arrived at approximately 10:39. Additional assistance was provided to passengers.
NSIB investigators have commenced evidence gathering and analysis to determine the circumstances surrounding the occurrence. The investigation will examine technical, operational, and infrastructure factors, including train configuration, locomotive attachment systems, operational procedures, and relevant operational data.
Commenting on the incident, the Director General of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., expressed concern for the affected passengers and reaffirmed the Bureau’s commitment to uncovering the facts behind the occurrence.
“This incident reminds us that every transport journey carries the trust and expectations of hundreds of people who rely on the system to move them safely to their destination.
“Our thoughts are with the passengers who sustained injuries, and we commend the swift response of Nigerian Railway Corporation personnel and emergency teams who assisted those affected.
“At the Bureau, we approach every investigation with a deep sense of responsibility because behind every occurrence are real people, real families, and real consequences.
“Our team will carefully examine every relevant factor to understand what happened and ensure that lessons from this occurrence lead to safer railway operations across Nigeria.”
The Bureau added that it will work closely with the Nigerian Railway Corporation and other relevant agencies as the investigation progresses. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.