The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has restored the damaged Abuja–Kaduna rail line and begun a comprehensive safety assessment, signaling an imminent return of train services following last month’s derailment at Asham.
NRC Managing Director, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, confirmed that engineers had completed primary repairs on the main track, while work on the secondary track continues.
Damaged coaches and locomotives have been recovered for technical evaluation.
The corporation stressed that passenger safety remains its top priority, with full inspections and certifications underway before reopening the corridor.
The August 26 derailment, which injured 22 of 618 passengers, was attributed to human error involving excessive speed and improper emergency braking.
NRC said it has adopted all safety recommendations from internal and external investigations.
An official date for resumption will be announced once final safety checks conclude.
NRC thanked passengers for their patience, security agencies for their support, and its engineering team for their swift response.
The corporation pledged that Nigerians can expect a safer and more reliable rail service when operations resume.
Written by Victor Okiche