Passengers injured as Abuja-Kaduna train derails

Several passengers sustained injuries on Monday when an Abuja-Kaduna train derailed.

The train’s derailment followed a collision along the track.

The incident occurred near Asham along the busy rail line connecting Abuja and Kaduna, triggering panic among passengers onboard the train.

Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, Kayode Opeifa, confirmed the development, stating that emergency response teams were immediately deployed to the scene after the derailment was reported.

Preliminary findings indicated that the train derailed after colliding with an object on the track. Officials have yet to provide full details on the exact circumstances surrounding the collision or the nature of the obstruction.

Several passengers reportedly sustained varying degrees of injuries during the incident. They were immediately rushed to a medical facility at the Idu Railway Station where they are currently receiving treatment.

Authorities said no fatalities had been recorded as of the time of filing this report.

Witness accounts and videos circulating on social media showed damaged coaches and railway personnel inspecting the affected train. Stranded passengers were also seen gathered near the tracks after safely disembarking while rescue officials coordinated evacuation efforts.

NRC Management confirmed that the incident occurred at about 10:30 a.m. today near Asham, involving a rear locomotive and a passenger coach next to it due to a coupling issue.

Some passengers sustained injuries and were promptly attended to and taken to a nearby medical facility for proper medical care. No fatalities were recorded.

NRC Managing Director, Dr. Kayode Opeifa said, “Emergency response protocols were immediately activated, and relevant technical teams have been mobilized to the location. The Safety Investigation Bureau (SIB) is also on site to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident in line with established safety procedures.

“The train arrived Idu station at about 10.39am, 38minutes behind schedule due to time allowed to remove the incident rear locomotive and coach Sp 0006.

“The Corporation assures the public that safety remains its top priority, and all necessary measures are being taken to address the situation and ensure the continued safe operation of train services.

Further details will be communicated as more information becomes available.”