The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has condemned a growing wave of attacks on train services along the Abuja-Kaduna rail corridor, warning that the incidents pose serious risks to passenger safety, railway personnel, and critical national infrastructure.
The latest attack occurred around Kilometer 177 on the corridor, where unidentified individuals reportedly gathered along the track and pelted stones at a moving train, damaging the windscreen of the leading locomotive. The corporation described the development as part of a disturbing pattern of repeated assaults on its operations in recent weeks.
According to the NRC, similar incidents have been recorded across multiple locations, including Gidan Busa and Sarki Gora Village in the Kakau District of Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Management disclosed that attacks have now been reported in more than six locations along the route within a short period, compounding operational challenges for one of Nigeria’s busiest rail lines.
The corporation said the repeated incidents “pose serious danger to railway operations, passengers, and operational personnel,” adding that the attacks not only threaten lives but also amount to economic sabotage. It warned that such acts are capable of disrupting national transportation and undermining significant government investments in the railway sector.
Despite the security concerns, the NRC confirmed that train services along the corridor have continued, albeit under heightened safety measures and strict operational vigilance. The corporation commended its personnel for maintaining professionalism under pressure, ensuring that passengers are transported safely amid the ongoing threats.
Management also acknowledged the role of security agencies working alongside railway authorities to secure the corridor. “The Corporation specially acknowledges the efforts and support of security operatives working tirelessly with the NRC to secure railway corridors and safeguard passengers and railway assets despite the persistent attacks,” the statement said.
In response to the escalating situation, the NRC said it is intensifying collaboration with security agencies, community leaders, and other stakeholders to enhance surveillance, track down perpetrators, and bring them to justice. It emphasized that stronger local cooperation is essential to curbing the menace.
The corporation urged residents living along railway corridors to remain vigilant and support efforts to protect public infrastructure by reporting suspicious activities. It also called on communities to discourage acts of vandalism and attacks on trains, stressing that collective action is critical to safeguarding the nation’s rail system.
Warning of broader implications, the NRC noted that continued attacks could disrupt smooth service delivery if not urgently addressed. It reiterated its commitment to providing safe, secure, and efficient rail transport services across the country, assuring passengers that all necessary steps are being taken to protect lives and railway assets.
