On Sunday morning, a train experienced a minor derailment at Jere station in Kaduna State. The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has confirmed that all passengers are safe, and train services between Kaduna-Rigasa and Idu-Abuja will continue as scheduled.
The derailment occurred about an hour after the train departed from Kaduna at 8:05 a.m., causing three carriages to go off the tracks.
NRC Deputy Director of Public Relations, Yakubu Mahmood, provided details in a statement: “All passengers on board the Kaduna-Rigasa to Idu-Abuja train arrived at their respective destinations safely. Meanwhile, a team of NRC engineers is already at the site to restore the affected locations.”
Mahmood also assured the public that passenger train services will proceed without interruption. “The management of the Nigerian Railway Corporation hereby informs the general public, especially our valued passengers, that normal passenger train services between Kaduna-Rigasa and Idu-Abuja continue despite the minor derailment of our coach at Jere station this morning,” he said.
He extended apologies for any inconvenience caused and reaffirmed the NRC’s dedication to passenger safety and comfort. “Nigerian Railway Corporation Management regrets any inconveniences to our affected valued passengers. NRC wishes to assure our valued passengers of our efforts towards ensuring their safety and comfort always,” Mahmood added.
This incident brings back memories of the March 2022 attack on the Abuja-Kaduna train by bandits, which resulted in fatalities and significant disruptions. In response to that tragedy, the government has implemented enhanced safety measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The NRC’s swift response to the derailment and the continuation of train services emphasize its commitment to maintaining reliable and safe transportation for its passengers.