NRC Restores Abuja–Kaduna Train Services After Disruption

By Abah Margaret

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has resumed full operations on the Abuja–Kaduna rail corridor following a disruption earlier this week.

The Managing Director of the corporation, Kayode Opeifa, confirmed the development in a statement on Wednesday, assuring passengers of enhanced safety and improved service delivery.

According to him, normal train services were restored after the incident that occurred on Monday, March 16, 2026, was swiftly addressed.

“Following the incident on Monday, 16th March 2026, normal train operations have been fully restored through the prompt intervention of the Nigerian Railway Corporation,” Opeifa stated.

He encouraged passengers to continue booking tickets, noting that new safety and operational measures have been put in place to guarantee secure and comfortable journeys.

Opeifa also disclosed that the Abuja–Kaduna Train Service (AKTS) successfully completed its return trip from Rigasa, Kaduna State, on Tuesday, March 17, with support from traditional authorities, including the Hakimin Idu, Alhaji Ishaq Ibrahim Tanko.

He emphasised that the corporation’s quick response minimised disruption and reaffirmed its commitment to passenger safety and efficient service delivery.

The NRC further noted that the successful resumption of the AKTS service signals a return to normalcy for commuters along the busy rail corridor.

Details of the Incident

The disruption was traced to an operational fault that occurred at about 9:16 a.m. near Asham Station on the Abuja–Kaduna rail line.

The affected train, identified as KA2, had departed Rigasa and made a scheduled stop at Jere before continuing its journey.

However, after leaving Jere—where an additional rear locomotive was attached—the locomotive reportedly detached while the train was in motion. It subsequently rolled forward and collided with the rear of the train.

The train was conveying 429 passengers, alongside crew members and security personnel.

No fatalities were recorded, although some passengers sustained injuries and were given immediate medical attention. The train later proceeded to Idu Station in Abuja.