By Ehis Agbon, Kaduna, Nigeria
Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has mobilized emergency response teams following the derailment of an Abuja-Kaduna passenger train on Tuesday morning, an incident that triggered panic among passengers and their families.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner-Designate for Information, Malam Ahmed Maiyaki, the governor directed the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and the Ministry of Local Government Affairs to take immediate action at the scene.
The emergency directives include:
Evacuation of all stranded passengers.
Provision of medical care and emergency assistance to the injured.
Psycho-social support for affected victims.
“Governor Sani has mandated that every necessary support be extended to the passengers to alleviate the distress caused by this unfortunate event. Our priority is the safety and well-being of all involved,” Maiyaki stated.
The Kaduna State Government appealed to residents to remain calm, assuring that the situation is under control. Governor Sani also conveyed his sympathy to the victims and their families, promising sustained support throughout the recovery process.
Meanwhile, an investigation into the cause of the derailment is underway. The state government said it is working closely with federal authorities and security agencies to ensure a thorough probe and prevent future occurrences.
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Background: The Abuja–Kaduna Rail Line
The Abuja–Kaduna train service, inaugurated in 2016, is one of Nigeria’s most critical rail corridors, linking the Federal Capital Territory to Kaduna State. It serves thousands of commuters daily, including government officials, business people, and students, offering an alternative to the often-insecure Abuja–Kaduna highway.
However, the line has also faced challenges. In March 2022, terrorists attacked a Kaduna-bound train, killing at least eight people and abducting many passengers—a tragedy that forced a temporary suspension of services. Security has since been strengthened along the corridor, but Tuesday’s derailment has reignited concerns about safety and reliability.
Observers note that while derailments are not common, they highlight the urgent need for continuous investment in rail infrastructure, strict safety protocols, and stronger collaboration between federal and state authorities. For many Nigerians, the Abuja–Kaduna rail line remains a lifeline, making its stability a matter of national importance.
