Passengers injured as Abuja–Kaduna train derails after track collision
Several passengers sustained injuries on Monday after a train operating on the Abuja–Kaduna route derailed following a collision along the track.
The incident occurred near Asham on the busy rail corridor linking Abuja and Kaduna, causing panic among passengers on board.
The Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, Kayode Opeifa, confirmed the development, noting that emergency response teams were immediately dispatched to the scene after the derailment was reported.
Preliminary findings indicate that the train derailed after colliding with an object on the track. However, officials have yet to provide full details on the exact circumstances surrounding the collision or the nature of the obstruction.
Several passengers reportedly suffered varying degrees of injuries during the incident. They were evacuated 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.
The management of the Nigerian Railway Corporation said the incident occurred at about 10:30 a.m. near Asham and involved a rear locomotive and a passenger coach next to it due to a coupling issue.
Some passengers sustained injuries and were promptly attended to before being taken to a nearby medical facility for further treatment, while no fatalities were recorded.
Opeifa said emergency response protocols were immediately activated and technical teams mobilised to the site. He added that the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau was also on ground to conduct a thorough investigation in line with established safety procedures.
According to him, the train eventually arrived at Idu Station at about 10:39 a.m., about 38 minutes behind schedule, due to the time required to remove the affected rear locomotive and coach.
The corporation assured the public that passenger safety remains its top priority and that 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, the corporation said.
