By Muhammad Mamman
President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep concern over Tuesday’s derailment of the Abuja–Kaduna train, pledging swift action once he receives a comprehensive briefing on the incident.
The President, who is currently on an official visit to Brazil, described the accident as “distressing” and extended his prayers to the injured passengers and their families.
“Even while abroad, I have received reports of the Abuja–Kaduna train derailment. I am deeply saddened by this incident. My heartfelt prayers are with the injured, their families, and all passengers who went through this distressing experience,” Tinubu posted on his official X handle.
He added that he was awaiting a full report to guarantee immediate support for those affected and to ensure measures are put in place to prevent a recurrence.
The derailment occurred around 11 a.m. on Tuesday, shortly after the train departed Abuja en route to Kaduna. According to the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), the train was carrying 583 passengers and 15 crew members. The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) confirmed six people sustained injuries, though no fatalities were recorded. Eyewitnesses described the aftermath as chaotic, with passengers scrambling to safety.
NRC Chief Takes Full Responsibility
The Managing Director of the NRC, Mr Kayode Opeifa, has publicly accepted full responsibility for the accident.
Speaking on Channels Television, Opeifa said:
“Beyond apologising to Nigerians, I want to say as the managing director and chief executive, I take full responsibility. Once it happens, the chief executive must take responsibility. In this case, I am taking responsibility.”
He assured the public that the derailment would not be brushed aside and that investigations were ongoing. According to him, the NRC has already shut down other routes, including Warri–Itakpe, for safety works to avoid similar occurrences.
Obi Calls for Urgent Investment in Rail Safety
Reacting to the derailment, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, urged the government to rebuild public confidence in the nation’s transport system.
“I am deeply saddened by the news of the Abuja–Kaduna train derailment today; my heartfelt prayers are with the injured and all affected,” Obi said in a statement via his X handle.
He stressed that rail transport remains critical to Nigeria’s economic development and called for sustained investment in infrastructure, accountability, and immediate medical support for victims.
