The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) announced that train services along the Port Harcourt–Aba corridor will resume on Tuesday, following repairs to a faulty locomotive that had disrupted operations.
Onyedikachi Onovo, spokesperson of NRC’s eastern district, announced the resumption in Enugu on Monday on behalf of the management.
The corporation had suspended services on September 5, citing routine maintenance. The move came after a breakdown on September 3 at Imo River, which left passengers stranded.
“The attention of NRC has been drawn to a video on social media showing passengers of the Port Harcourt–Aba Train Service trekking long distances and even crossing a stream in search of alternative means of transportation,” Onovo said.
“This followed the breakdown of the train at Imo River on Wednesday, Sept. 3 at about 16:22 hrs.”
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Onovo explained that engineers had attempted to revive the train after it developed an unusual fault while heading from Port Harcourt to Aba, but the problem persisted. He said another engine, Loco 2306, was deployed to rescue the stranded train, while passengers either sought alternative routes or were conveyed back safely.
He added that the faulty train has been returned to Port Harcourt for “thorough repairs to ensure it is fit to resume service in line with enhanced quality control.”
“All passengers affected by this disruption are advised to visit our stations in Port Harcourt or Aba with evidence of payment for a possible refund or replacement of train ride,” he said.
“We appreciate the concerns raised by the public and deeply value the patience and understanding shown by our passengers during this period.”
Onovo said NRC remains committed to transforming its services under the federal government’s renewed hope agenda, with a focus on safety, reliability, and customer satisfaction.
