President Bola Tinubu has expressed sadness over the derailment of an Abuja–Kaduna passenger train, which occurred on Tuesday shortly after it departed Abuja at about 11 am.
In a statement shared on his official X handle, Tinubu commiserated with the passengers, families of the injured, and all those affected by the incident.
“Even while in Brazil, I have received reports of today’s 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 said.
The president added that he was awaiting a full briefing to ensure swift action and necessary support for the victims, stressing that steps would be taken to prevent a recurrence.
Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Kayode Opeifa, has assumed full responsibility for the derailment.
Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Wednesday, Opeifa said the safety of passengers remained paramount and promised transparency in the ongoing investigation.
“Let me say, beyond apologising to Nigeria, that I take full responsibility as the managing director and chief executive.
“In matters of safety, there is no indifference. Once an incident happens, the chief executive must take responsibility. In this case, I am taking responsibility,” he stated.
Opeifa confirmed that four passengers sustained serious injuries, while at least two others were treated and discharged immediately.
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He also revealed that the NRC would follow up with all 618 passengers on board to monitor possible post-traumatic effects.
Following the accident, the NRC suspended operations on the Abuja-Kaduna corridor until further notice.
Opeifa said technical staff, in collaboration with the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) and other relevant agencies, had commenced a full investigation at the derailment site.
The Abuja–Kaduna rail line has remained one of Nigeria’s busiest and most strategic train routes, offering an alternative to the often-insecure highway.
The derailment adds to existing concerns over safety on the corridor, which has previously suffered terrorist attacks and operational challenges.
