NSIB Releases Preliminary Report on Abuja-Kaduna Train Derailment

Oru Leonard 

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), has released its preliminary report on the August 26, 2025, train derailment at Asham Station on the Abuja-Kaduna rail line. The incident involved train number AK 1, operated by the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), carrying 618 passengers, including crew members and security personnel.

In a press release made available to NewsDot Africa, by Mrs Bimbo Olawumi OladejiDirector, Public Affairs and Family Assistance said NSIB’ findings include:

– That the derailment occurred at approximately 11:09 h, shortly after passing a manually operated switch point at Asham Station.
– 21 passengers sustained injuries, but fortunately, no fatalities were recorded.
– Initial findings suggest that operational and maintenance equipment, including spare parts, were not readily accessible.
– Some instruments, such as Closed-Circuit Television cameras and clocks, were deferred and unserviceable.

NSIB recommended the following

– That the NRC should provide formal refresher training for personnel to ensure they remain up-to-date with safety procedures and operational best practices.
– The bureau advised the NRC to replace all sleepers affected by derailments to guarantee track stability and prevent further incidents.
–  The NSIB suggested replacing all point switches at Asham Station and along the Abuja-Kaduna route with Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts.
–  Restoration of all defective equipment, such as communication equipment and CCTV cameras, to OEM standards

The NSIB has reiterated commitment to investigating the incident and release a final report with detailed conclusions and additional recommendations to enhance rail safety in Nigeria. The preliminary report is available for download on the NSIB website: nsib.gov.ng