Several passengers suffered injuries on Monday when an Abuja-bound train from Kaduna derailed following a collision near Asham, the Nigerian Railway Corporation confirmed.
Managing Director Kayode Opeifa told reporters that no one has died. Injured passengers received medical attention at Idu train station.
He added that the NRC has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the derailment.
“It is confirmed that our Abuja-Kaduna train had an incident at Asham. Passengers were injured while we continue investigating the exact cause,” Opeifa said.
Eyewitness Account
Social media user Sada Malumfashi (@sadaoverall) described a chaotic scene: “Just dropped from the Kaduna-Abuja train. We heard a loud bang, and the train jolted to a stop, flinging people across. Passengers got hit, and many were bleeding. The train was delayed for about 30 minutes and resumed to Kubwa. There was no communication from @info_NRC.”
Her account highlights both the violence of the derailment and passengers’ frustration over poor communication.
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The Abuja-Kaduna rail line started operations in 2016 to improve travel between Abuja and Kaduna. It serves as a safe alternative to Nigeria’s congested roads. Thousands of passengers use the line weekly.
However, the route has faced challenges, including mechanical faults, track maintenance issues, and delays. Incidents like Monday’s derailment show that safety and reliability remain major concerns.
Passengers and commuters continue to call for better safety measures, real-time updates, and stricter maintenance schedules to prevent future accidents.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
