-SEB EDITORIAL-
Back on Track: Abuja - Kaduna Train
Service Set to Resume After Suspension
In a
welcome development for commuters and stakeholders, the Nigerian Railway
Corporation (NRC) has announced the imminent resumption of the Abuja, Kaduna
passenger train service, following a month-long suspension triggered by a
derailment incident on August 26.
The derailment, which occurred near Asham shortly after departure from Abuja, raised serious safety concerns and prompted an immediate halt to operations along the vital corridor.
According
to NRC’s Chief Public Relations Officer, Callistus Unyimadu, the corporation
has completed extensive repair work and safety checks on the affected section
of track. These efforts, he emphasized, were carried out in line with global
best practices to ensure the infrastructure and rolling stock meet the highest
safety standards. The NRC’s commitment to restoring confidence in the service
was evident in its swift response and transparent communication throughout the
recovery period.
Unyimadu
also disclosed that 512 of the 583 passengers onboard the derailed train have already
received refunds, with ongoing efforts to reach the remaining individuals. This
gesture underscores the NRC’s dedication to passenger welfare and its resolve
to uphold accountability in times of crisis.
The
derailment, attributed to poor maintenance and a faulty track switch, has
sparked broader conversations about the state of Nigeria’s rail infrastructure.
Preliminary findings from the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau pointed to
patchwork repairs, insufficient refresher training for NRC staff, and limited
access to spare parts from the original equipment manufacturer. These
revelations have prompted calls for systemic reforms and increased investment
in rail safety.
Despite
the setback, the NRC has expressed gratitude to the Federal Ministry of
Transportation, security agencies, the media, and other stakeholders for their
support during the suspension. The corporation reassured the public that
safety, comfort, and satisfaction remain its top priorities as it prepares to
relaunch the service.
While the
exact date and schedule for the resumption are yet to be officially released,
the announcement has sparked relief and anticipation among travelers who rely
on the Abuja–Kaduna route for daily transit. The NRC has promised to
communicate further details in the coming days, signaling a cautious but
confident return to normalcy
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