…promises swift return to normal schedule
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has explained that the recent reduction in the frequency of Abuja–Kaduna train trips is a direct consequence of two major setbacks, the March 2022 terrorist attack on the corridor and the August 26 derailment that damaged its flagship rolling stock.
In a statement on Tuesday signed by Callistus Unyimadu, Chief Public Relations Officer, the Corporation said it appreciates the concerns raised by commuters and stakeholders.
Unyimadu said while the Abuja–Kaduna route remains a flagship service in Nigeria’s modern rail system, disruptions on the corridor are felt widely because of its national importance.
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He noted that the NRC regrets the inconveniences experienced by passengers following the reduction in services.
According to the statement, the decline in service frequency is not a product of neglect or poor management but the unavoidable outcome of the two major incidents.
The March 2022 attack, which led to loss of lives and severe trauma, compelled the NRC to redesign operational procedures, restrict late trips and intensify security collaborations with the Armed Forces and the Police.
The more recent derailment incident further reduced the number of serviceable coaches, forcing temporary adjustments to the schedule.
“It is important to clarify that the reduction in service frequency is not the result of neglect or indifference, but the direct outcome of two major setbacks.
“The first is the March 2022 terrorist attack, which led to the loss of precious lives and caused severe trauma. In response, the Corporation prioritised safety, redesigned operating procedures, restricted late trips and strengthened security collaborations with the Armed Forces and the Police to prevent a recurrence.
“The second is the recent derailment incident, which damaged several coaches and reduced the number of serviceable rolling stock available for daily operations. Repairs and refurbishment are ongoing with urgency, alongside arrangements for the deployment of additional coaches to restore normal frequency as soon as possible,” the NRC assured.
The Corporation outlined several ongoing interventions, including the repair and certification of damaged coaches, consideration of alternative rolling stock for temporary reinforcement, and continuous strengthening of security measures along the corridor.
The restoration of multiple daily trips, it stressed, remains one of its foremost operational priorities.
Unyimadu reaffirmed the NRC’s commitment to safety, reliability and service excellence, noting that the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda has continued to support the strengthening of rail infrastructure nationwide.
Appealing for patience and understanding from commuters, the NRC expressed confidence that passengers would begin to see progressive improvement and eventual full normalisation of services as restoration efforts advance.
“The Abuja–Kaduna Train Service remains our pride. We value every voice, including that of Mr. Iskeel and all passengers who rely on our services daily. Your concerns strengthen our resolve,” the statement read.
