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Safety Probe Underway After Kaduna–Abuja Train Mishap Injures Passengers

Published by Samuel Ayomide on March 17th, 2026.

Authorities have commenced an investigation into a rail incident involving a passenger train on the Kaduna–Abuja corridor, which left several commuters injured on Monday.

The Nigerian Railway Corporation confirmed that the mishap occurred around 10:30 a.m. near the Asham axis of Kaduna State while the train was en route from Rigasa Station to Idu Station in Abuja.

Preliminary findings indicate that the disruption was caused by a coupling failure involving a rear locomotive and the adjacent passenger coach. According to details reported by The Punch, the mechanical fault led to a detachment, which ultimately triggered the incident.

Although no fatalities were recorded, several passengers sustained varying degrees of injuries and were immediately taken to nearby medical facilities for treatment. Officials said emergency response protocols were promptly activated, with technical teams dispatched to stabilise the situation and ensure passenger safety.

Managing Director of the NRC, Kayode Opeifa, confirmed that the train continued its journey after the affected components were isolated, arriving at Idu Station with a delay of under an hour. He described the occurrence as preventable and assured the public that safety measures are being reinforced.

Further insight into the incident was provided by the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, which has opened a full-scale probe. In a statement referenced by The Guardian, the bureau disclosed that the train—identified as KA2—had earlier departed Rigasa and made a scheduled stop at Jere Station before the situation unfolded shortly after departure.

Investigators explained that the rear locomotive, which had been attached for operational support, disengaged while the train was moving along a descending section of the track. The detached engine reportedly rolled forward and collided with the rear section of the train, resulting in the injuries recorded.

At the time of the incident, the train was conveying 429 passengers, alongside dozens of crew members and security personnel.

Director-General of the NSIB, Alex Badeh Jr., expressed concern over the development, stressing that the investigation would focus on identifying both immediate and underlying causes. According to The Nation, he noted that every transport incident carries significant human implications and must be treated with urgency and diligence.

He added that investigators are examining technical systems, operational procedures, and infrastructure conditions, including locomotive coupling mechanisms and train configuration, to prevent a recurrence.

The latest development has renewed attention on safety along the Kaduna–Abuja rail line, which remains one of Nigeria’s busiest transport routes. A similar incident in 2025 had also resulted in multiple injuries, raising concerns among passengers and stakeholders about maintenance standards and operational oversight.

Authorities say findings from the ongoing investigation will guide improvements aimed at strengthening rail safety and restoring public confidence in the country’s railway system.