NRC gives reasons for reduction in Abuja-Kaduna Rail Service frequency

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) says the reduction in the frequency of rail services between Abuja- and Kaduna is not because of neglect or indifference, but the direct outcome of two major setbacks – terrorist attack in 2022 and derailment incident.

The Chief Public Relations Office of NRC, Callistus Unyimadu, made this known to PortNews in Lagos on Tuesday.

According to him, “It is important to clarify that the reduction in service frequency is not the result of neglect or indifference, but the direct outcome of two major setbacks.

“The first is the March 2022 terrorist attack, which led to the loss of precious lives and caused severe trauma. In response, the Corporation prioritised safety, redesigned operating procedures, restricted late trips and strengthened security collaborations with the Armed Forces and the Police to prevent a recurrence.

“The second is the recent derailment incident, which damaged several coaches and reduced the number of serviceable rolling stock available for daily operations. Repairs and refurbishment are ongoing with urgency, alongside arrangements for the deployment of additional coaches to restore normal frequency as soon as possible.”

The NRC regretted the inconvenience which the reduction in the service frequency has caused its customers who ply this route but elevated by a review by journalist Muhammad Iskeel Abdullahi, published on the platform Journalists for Development, regarding the state of the Abuja–Kaduna Train Service.

Callistus Unyimadu said “We appreciate the passion, concern and sense of national responsibility expressed. These are genuine sentiments shared by a concerned customer and a patriotic Nigerian. We value all our customers and take every feedback seriously.

“As rightly noted, the Abuja–Kaduna corridor is a flagship service of the nation’s modern railway revival. It is therefore understandable that any disruption, no matter how minimal, is widely felt. We acknowledge the discomfort experienced by our numerous commuters who have had to bear the reduction in services caused by the August 26 incident, which damaged our flagship Diesel Multiple Unit rolling stock. We regret the inconveniences this has caused.

“We respectfully appeal for continued understanding and patience as we work tirelessly to return the Abuja–Kaduna Train Service to its full schedule. We are confident that passengers will witness progressive improvement and, ultimately, the complete normalisation of services as the restoration process advances.

“The Abuja–Kaduna Train Service remains our pride. We value every voice, including that of Mr. Iskeel and all passengers who rely on our services daily. Your concerns strengthen our resolve.

“We reassure our esteemed passengers that these challenges do not represent a decline in our commitment. They reflect a phase of recovery, restoration and rebuilding. The Federal Government, under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has demonstrated strong support for strengthening rail infrastructure nationwide, and the Honourable Minister of Transport is consistently engaged with the Corporation to fast-track full restoration.”

Unyimadu informed that damaged coaches are currently undergoing repairs and certification for safe return to service while alternative rolling stock is being considered for temporary reinforcement where technically feasible.

He added that security enhancement across the corridor continues to receive top priority as the full restoration of multiple daily trips remains a foremost operational target.

“We remain committed to safety, reliability and service excellence. Our doors are open, and we will continue to communicate developments transparently,” said he.