The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has released its preliminary findings on the derailment of train number AK1, operated by the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), which occurred on 26 August 2025 at Asham Station, Kaduna State.
The passenger service, which departed Idu Station, Abuja, with 618 persons on board, derailed shortly after 11:00 hours, resulting in 21 injuries but no fatalities. The forward locomotive and seven adjoining coaches left the tracks following a manually operated switch point.
Key Findings:
* This was the second derailment at Asham Station within 13 months.
* Previously damaged sleepers were only patched rather than replaced.
* The automatic crossing point switch was unserviceable and operated manually with a broken clip.
* NRC staff had not undergone refresher training since their initial induction.
* Spare parts, maintenance tools, and safety equipment, including CCTV cameras, were not readily available.
Safety Recommendations:
1. Replace all damaged sleepers to ensure track stability.
2. Install OEM-standard point switches along the Abuja–Kaduna corridor.
3. Correct all cautionary points flagged to drivers to reduce operational risks.
4. Provide refresher training for NRC personnel to strengthen compliance with safety procedures.
The NSIB stressed that these measures are critical to safeguarding lives, restoring public confidence, and preventing further derailments on the Abuja–Kaduna rail corridor.
