The Federal Government has established a committee to investigate the recent derailment of a train on the Abuja–Kaduna corridor. The incident occurred on August 26, 2025, near Jerre, shortly after the train departed Abuja, resulting in six injuries, though no fatalities were reported.
The Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Ahmed Alkali, announced that the committee will examine both the immediate and underlying causes of the derailment. It is tasked with proposing measures to prevent similar incidents and identifying strategies to enhance the safety and efficiency of Nigeria’s rail network. The committee’s formation reflects the government’s renewed focus on improving rail transportation safety and infrastructure, following a period of several high-profile rail incidents in the country.
Musa O. Ibrahim from the Department of Operations and Public Safety in Transport has been appointed as the committee’s chairperson. Other members include engineering and academic experts, legal professionals, representatives from the Nigerian Railway Corporation, civil society organizations, passengers, and private sector stakeholders involved in rail operations. Barr. Omotola Olusegun will serve as the committee’s secretary.
The committee is expected to conduct a comprehensive review of operational, technical, and regulatory aspects of rail transport on the corridor, aiming to deliver actionable recommendations. Updates on the investigation and its findings will be released once the committee completes its work, signaling the government’s commitment to safeguarding passengers and improving national rail services.
