Abuja-Kaduna train service resumes October 1, ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient travel for passengers following the August 26 derailment
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has officially announced the resumption of the Abuja-Kaduna train service for passengers starting Wednesday, October 1, 2025.
This follows a temporary suspension after a derailment on August 26, 2025, which affected a Kaduna-bound train.
The move underscores NRC’s commitment to providing safe, reliable, and customer-friendly rail transportation across the country.
In a statement released by NRC’s Chief Public Relations Officer, Callistus Unyimadu, the Corporation emphasized that passenger safety remains its top priority.
“Our focus has always been on providing secure and efficient travel options for Nigerians, and the resumption of the Abuja-Kaduna train service reflects our commitment to passenger welfare and operational excellence,” he said.
The derailment involved 583 passengers, prompting NRC to take immediate action to ensure passenger support and safety. Key measures include:
Passenger contact and refunds: 530 passengers were contacted by phone, and 512 have received full refunds.
Medical attention: All 22 injured passengers were attended to by NRC’s medical team.
Compensation: Injured passengers will enjoy one free ride per week until December 31, 2025. In total, all 618 individuals on board during the incident are entitled to at least one complimentary ride before year-end.
“These steps demonstrate NRC’s commitment to the welfare of our passengers and accountability in the aftermath of the incident,” Unyimadu added.
To prevent future incidents, the NRC has implemented a regular maintenance schedule for the Abuja-Kaduna rail line.
Every Wednesday is now dedicated to routine inspections and technical servicing, ensuring that tracks and trains remain in top condition.
“Regular maintenance is crucial for safe travel,” said Unyimadu.
“By setting aside Wednesdays for checks, we reduce the risk of accidents and maintain service reliability for all passengers.”
The resumption of the Abuja-Kaduna train service comes with enhancements aimed at improving passenger comfort and safety. NRC has introduced:
Modernized services and improved safety standards
Customer-friendly policies for refunds and compensation
Real-time communication on schedules and updates
“The Corporation deeply appreciates the patience and understanding of passengers during the suspension,” Unyimadu stated.
“We remain dedicated to providing affordable, efficient, and safe rail transportation that supports national connectivity and economic growth.”
The Abuja-Kaduna rail corridor is one of Nigeria’s busiest, linking the nation’s capital to key economic hubs. Its resumption is expected to:
Reduce travel time and improve convenience for commuters
Facilitate trade and business along the corridor
Provide a more environmentally friendly alternative to road travel
Thousands of Nigerians—including students, traders, professionals, and tourists—rely on this route weekly. Reliable rail transport is essential for national mobility, economic activity, and regional development.
Following lessons from the derailment, NRC is strengthening safety measures across all routes. Measures include:
Enhanced staff training and operational monitoring
Upgraded equipment and safety protocols
Continuous communication with passengers via digital channels
Passengers can now expect seamless ticketing, improved seating comfort, and proactive customer support. These initiatives are part of NRC’s broader goal of making rail travel in Nigeria a dependable and preferred mode of transport.
With the Abuja-Kaduna train service resuming on October 1, Nigerians can look forward to safer, more efficient, and passenger-focused travel.
NRC’s swift response to the August derailment, coupled with weekly maintenance schedules and comprehensive compensation measures, reflects a renewed commitment to operational excellence and passenger welfare.
The Corporation continues to prioritize safety, reliability, and affordability, ensuring that the Abuja-Kaduna rail line remains a vital transport corridor while supporting national connectivity and economic growth.
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