Abuja-Kaduna Rail Services Resume After 5-Week Suspension
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has resumed passenger train operations on the Abuja-Kaduna route, effective October 1, 2025, following a five-week suspension prompted by a derailment incident on August 26.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the NRC confirmed that all required safety, technical, and operational checks had been successfully completed. “This step underscores the Corporation’s commitment to providing smooth, reliable, and secure train services for the traveling public,” it said.
The updated train schedule is as follows:
Abuja – Kaduna:
- IDU: 8:45 AM
- Kubwa: 9:05 AM
- Rigasa: 12:42 PM (Arrival)
Kaduna – Abuja:
- Rigasa: 2:30 PM
- Kubwa: 6:02 PM
- IDU: 6:23 PM (Arrival)
Wednesdays have now been designated for routine maintenance on the corridor to enhance service reliability and safety.
The NRC expressed its appreciation to the public for their patience and understanding during the suspension period, reaffirming its dedication to offering safe, efficient, and customer-friendly train services across Nigeria.
Chief Public Relations Officer, Callistus Unyimadu, confirmed that the resumption followed the successful completion of all necessary checks and inspections.
The derailment, according to the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), was caused by defective rail infrastructure and safety management lapses. The incident occurred near a manually operated switch point that had already been flagged as unserviceable.
In response, the NRC has initiated several measures to support affected passengers. So far, 512 of the 583 passengers have received fare refunds, and efforts are ongoing to reach the remaining individuals.
In addition, all 618 passengers who were aboard the derailed train will be entitled to one free ride before December 31, 2025. Injured passengers will receive one free ride per week until the same date.
The NRC reiterated its mission to provide safe, affordable, and efficient rail services that promote national connectivity and economic development, while thanking passengers for their continued cooperation.
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