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The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has announced that the preliminary report of the train derailment investigation into the Abuja–Kaduna service accident will be released within 23 days.
Alex Badeh, the Director-General of the NSIB, explained that the Bureau is legally mandated to release preliminary reports of accidents within 30 days from August 26th when it happened.
Badeh stressed that the timeline ensures the public receives verified information quickly while the train derailment investigation continues.
“This entails that we are able to gather all the actual evidence related to the occurrence, at least those that will give us a way forward,” Badeh said. “So, within 30 days, we should provide you with a preliminary report.”
Recalled that on 26 August 2025 at approximately 11:07 hours, a passenger train operating the Abuja–Kaduna service (AK1), registration CDD5C2 2701, derailed at Asham Train Station on the Abuja–Kaduna rail line. The train was operated by the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC).
The train consisted of eight passenger coaches with one locomotive at the front and one at the rear. It departed Idu Station, Abuja, at 09:45 hours and stopped at Kubwa Station at 10:04 hours before continuing its journey.
Shortly after passing a track-changing point (switch/turnout) at Asham Station, five coaches (SC00 6T, SC00 8T, SC00 10T, E00 2S, and EB00 2S) derailed. The forward locomotive (CDD5C2 2701) and two coaches (SC002T, SC004T) overturned, while the rear locomotive (CDD5C1 W0004) and the last coach (SE00 2S) remained on the rail track.
There were 583 persons on board, including crew.
An eyewitness reported that approximately 50 passengers may have been injured, though many were taken away by their families. Official records confirmed 12 people sustained minor to moderate injuries. No fatalities recorded.
Badeh disclosed that the injured received first aid treatment and were transported to medical facilities for further examination. The NRC emergency team, supported by station military personnel and other security agencies, secured the site.
The derailment resulted in significant damage to the track, sleepers, and switching mechanism. Services on the Abuja–Kaduna–Abuja corridor were temporarily suspended to allow for recovery and repairs.
In accordance with the Railways (Investigation of Accidents and Incidents) Regulation 2024, established under the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) (Establishment) Act 2022, the DG said the NSIB has been notified and has instituted an independent investigation into this railway occurrence.
He said evidence protection measures include securing the site, restricting access, and coordinating with railway security authorities, police, and other relevant entities.
According to him, recorded data from the train, including vigilance control systems, speedometers, on-board CCTV cameras, and over-speed trip mechanisms, will be preserved and analysed.
“The NSIB may appoint technical experts to assist the IIC and may delegate parts of the investigation if needed, while ensuring coordination with any judicial panel or tribunal of inquiry.
“The ongoing investigation, as outlined in Part 5 of the Regulation, includes: Detailed inspection of the site, switch, track geometry, and infrastructure.
Review of NRC records (crew, station, control, maintenance, and operational data). Technical examination of locomotives, coaches, and other rolling stock.
“Interviews with crew, staff, responders, passengers, and witnesses (with statements taken under affirmation where required). The correlation of all evidence, including organisational information from the operator, is used to determine causal and contributing factors.
“Analysis of any recorded data from accidents and incidents, ensuring protection of investigation records from unauthorised disclosure or use in judicial proceedings (subject to a balancing test by competent authorities like the Federal High Court).
“Potential reopening of the investigation if new evidence emerges, and release of established factual information within the first year if appropriate.”
Badeh said if the investigation identifies international aspects (e.g., involvement of foreign states in design, manufacture, or operation of the rolling stock), the NSIB will forward notifications to relevant States and may invite accredited representatives or advisers to participate, respecting their rights and obligations.
“Family assistance will be provided in line with Part 9, including coordination with providers such as government agencies, the NRC, and family associations to address the needs of victims, survivors, and their families (defined as spouses, children, parents, siblings, and grandparents). A coordinator may be appointed to ensure accurate information and support.
Upon completion, a Draft Final Report will be prepared, which will include factual information, analysis, conclusions, and safety recommendations. This draft will be shared for consultation with stakeholders (including the NRC, other states, and interested parties) to solicit significant and substantiated comments,” he said..
He noted that the final report will then be released to recipients, including the Minister for Transport, the operator, and international bodies if applicable, and made publicly available.
He said interim statements may be issued on the anniversaries of the accident to update progress and highlight any ongoing safety issues.
