The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has announced major progress in its recovery and repair operations following the derailment of the Abuja–Kaduna train near Asham on 26 August 2025.
In a statement, the NRC said all coaches and locomotives involved in the incident had been successfully re-railed and moved to designated workshops for assessment and further technical work.
Engineers have repaired the main line sufficiently to allow the safe resumption of operations, while work on the secondary track continues. The Corporation stressed that the second line would remain closed until all necessary repairs were completed.
The NRC said it had begun a comprehensive safety and infrastructure assessment of the corridor to ensure that the highest standards of safety, durability and reliability are met before passenger services resume. “Safety remains our top priority,” it stated, adding that train operations would recommence only after technical inspections, tests and certifications were concluded.
According to the NRC, of the 618 passengers on board the affected train, 22 sustained injuries and are at various stages of recovery.
It has successfully contacted 512 passengers, while efforts continue to reach the remaining 71.
The Corporation said an in-house investigation into the incident had been concluded, with management accepting all recommendations.
Preliminary findings point to human error — specifically excessive speeding and misapplication of the emergency braking system.
It added that it was awaiting the results of an independent inquiry set up by the Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Alkali, and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB).
An official announcement on the resumption of services on the Abuja–Kaduna corridor is expected soon.
The NRC expressed appreciation to passengers, the public and the media for their patience and support throughout the recovery process.
It also commended the security agencies for their role in safeguarding recovery operations and protecting lives and property.
Reaffirming its commitment to safe, efficient and reliable services, the NRC said it remained focused on delivering modern rail transport in line with Nigeria’s transportation agenda.
