By Olasunkanmi Akoni
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has appealed to passengers using the Abuja–Kaduna train service to remain patient, describing the current disruption on the route as temporary.
The Managing Director of the Corporation, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, made the appeal in a statement issued on Tuesday, following public concerns over the reduced frequency of train services on the corridor.
According to Opeifa, the NRC reviewed a recent article by veteran journalist Muhammad Iskeel Abdullahi published on the Journalists for Development platform, and appreciated the concerns raised as genuine and patriotic.
He described the Abuja–Kaduna corridor as a flagship service under Nigeria’s railway modernisation programme, noting that even minimal disruptions are widely felt by the public.
The NRC acknowledged the discomfort experienced by commuters, attributing the reduced services to damage sustained by its Diesel Multiple Unit (DMU) rolling stock during an incident on August 26. It expressed regret over the inconvenience caused.
Opeifa explained that the service reduction was not due to neglect, but to two major setbacks: the March 2022 terrorist attack on the rail line, which prompted a comprehensive overhaul of safety procedures and enhanced collaboration with security agencies, and a recent derailment that damaged several coaches and reduced the number of operational rolling stock.
He said repairs and refurbishment are ongoing, while arrangements are being made to deploy additional coaches to restore normal service frequency.
The NRC assured passengers that the current challenges represent a phase of recovery and rebuilding rather than a decline in commitment.
Opeifa noted that the Federal Government, under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has continued to support efforts to strengthen rail infrastructure nationwide, with the Minister of Transport working closely with the Corporation to accelerate full restoration.
On ongoing interventions, he revealed that damaged coaches are undergoing repairs and safety certification, while alternative rolling stock is being considered for temporary reinforcement where feasible.
He said security enhancements along the Abuja–Kaduna corridor remain a top priority, and that restoring multiple daily trips is a key operational objective.
The NRC urged passengers to remain understanding and patient, assuring them of progressive improvements and a return to full services as restoration continues.
He reiterated that the Abuja–Kaduna service remains a priority to the Corporation, adding that passengers’ feedback helps strengthen its resolve to deliver safe, reliable and efficient service.
The NRC also pledged transparent communication and stated that the Managing Director can be reached via SMS on 08075005411.
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