By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has confirmed that six passengers sustained varying degrees of injuries on Tuesday after a Kaduna-bound passenger train derailed at approximately 11:09 a.m. between Kubwa Station and Asham Station, Abuja.

According to a statement signed by the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, NSIB, Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, the derailment occurred at KM 49, a few minutes after the train departed Abuja for Kaduna. The Bureau immediately deployed a “go-team” of investigators to the site to gather evidence, engage relevant stakeholders, and begin a full-scale investigation into the incident.

No Fatalities Recorded, But Chaos at the Scene

The NSIB confirmed that although no lives were lost, six passengers were injured and promptly given medical attention. Eyewitnesses recounted that the sudden derailment triggered panic among passengers, forcing many to flee in fear as confusion and chaos gripped the train corridor.

One passenger, who narrowly escaped injury, described the moment as “terrifying,” adding that the train shook violently before the coaches derailed.

NSIB Commits to Transparent Investigation

The Director-General of NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh, extended sympathy to all passengers affected and assured the public of a thorough and transparent investigation. He noted that the Bureau’s priority is to identify both the direct and underlying causes of the derailment and issue safety recommendations to prevent future occurrences.

“The Bureau has dispatched investigators to the site to ensure that the root cause of this derailment is uncovered. Our mission is to make rail transport safer for Nigerians through an independent and transparent investigative process,” Captain Badeh said.

The NSIB also pledged continuous support to those injured and emphasised that updates would be provided as the investigation progresses.

Growing Concerns Over Rail Safety

This incident has once again raised questions about the safety of Nigeria’s rail transport system, which has faced multiple challenges in recent years, including attacks, mechanical faults, and infrastructure decay. Many Nigerians rely heavily on the Abuja-Kaduna rail corridor as a safer alternative to road transport, which is often plagued by insecurity.

The derailment, however, underscores the urgent need for stronger maintenance systems, improved monitoring, and stricter enforcement of safety protocols in the nation’s rail operations.

As investigations continue, stakeholders and the general public will be watching closely for recommendations that could reshape Nigeria’s approach to railway safety management.

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