The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has confirmed that the number of passengers injured in the Abuja–Kaduna train derailment of August 26, 2025, has risen to 20.
The derailment, which occurred between Kubwa and Asham stations, initially left seven passengers injured, according to the NRC. However, in an update issued yesterday and signed by NRC Managing Director, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, the Corporation disclosed that 20 persons actually sustained varying degrees of injury, nine of whom are in critical condition.
“The NRC wishes to inform the general public on the progress made in the management of passenger tracing, treatment of the injured, recovery of its rolling stock, and restoration of the tracks following the derailment incident involving the Abuja–Kaduna-bound train,” the statement read.
According to the NRC, a total of 618 people were on board the train, including 583 passengers, 15 NRC crew members, one medical personnel, eight cleaners, and 11 catering staff. All were safely evacuated.
Dr. Opeifa revealed that NRC engineers have successfully recovered one locomotive and four coaches, which have been moved to Idu Station for assessment using a newly constructed 100-metre diversion track. Site preparation is ongoing for the deployment of heavy equipment to recover the remaining four coaches and the second locomotive.
He further stated that an Incident Desk has been set up to provide updates and handle inquiries. So far, the NRC has contacted 510 of the 583 passengers listed on the manifest.
The Managing Director expressed appreciation to security agencies for their support in ensuring a smooth and safe recovery process and thanked the media for their continued coverage.
He also acknowledged the visit of the Minister of Transportation, Senator Saidu Ahmed Alkali, who inspected the site and commended NRC’s recovery efforts.
“The NRC wishes to reassure its esteemed passengers and the general public that every necessary measure is being taken to restore full train operations in the shortest possible time. Passenger safety and service reliability remain the Corporation’s top priorities,” Opeifa added.
