The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has confirmed that six passengers sustained injuries after a Kaduna-bound train derailed at approximately 11:09 a.m. on Tuesday. The incident occurred at kilometre 49 (KM 49), between Kubwa Station and Asham Station, shortly after the train departed Abuja.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, the Bureau said there were no fatalities, but emergency responders were mobilised promptly.
According to the statement, a NSIB “go-team” was immediately deployed to the accident site to gather evidence, engage relevant stakeholders, and commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the derailment.
“Current information available indicates that six persons sustained injuries and no fatalities have been recorded. A go-team has been deployed to the site to gather evidence, engage relevant stakeholders, and commence an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident,” the Bureau said.
The NSIB expressed sympathy to the affected passengers and reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a transparent and independent investigation.
“The Bureau sympathises with those injured and extends its support to all passengers affected. The investigation will focus on identifying the direct and underlying factors that led to the derailment, with the aim of issuing safety recommendations to prevent a recurrence.”
The Director General of NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh, also commented on the incident, stating: “We deeply sympathise with all who sustained injuries. The Bureau has deployed investigators to the site to ensure the root cause of this derailment is uncovered. Our commitment is to ensure safer rail transport for Nigerians through a transparent and independent investigation.”
The Bureau assured the public that further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
Eyewitnesses described the derailment as chaotic and terrifying. One passenger said the train suddenly veered off the tracks without warning, triggering panic as passengers rushed to evacuate the affected coaches.
