The Traffic

Kaduna Moves Swiftly as Abuja–Kaduna Train Derails, Passengers Rescued

Panic rippled through passengers and their families on Tuesday when the Abuja–Kaduna train, a lifeline for many commuters between the two cities, derailed midway through its journey.

The train, which left Abuja around 11 a.m., veered off its tracks as it made its way toward Kaduna, sparking fear given the tragic memories of past attacks on the same route. Although no fatalities were immediately reported, the incident left several passengers injured and many others shaken.

In a prompt reaction, the Kaduna State Government urged residents to remain calm and assured that the situation was under control. “The Governor has instructed that every necessary support be extended to passengers to minimise the impact of this unfortunate incident. Injured persons are to be treated without delay, while emergency psycho-social and medical support is being provided to affected victims,” a government statement read.

Governor Uba Sani, through his Commissioner-Designate for Information, Malam Ahmed Maiyaki, directed the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and the Ministry of Local Government Affairs to immediately mobilise for rescue and relief. Teams were dispatched to evacuate stranded passengers, provide emergency care, and profile victims to ensure no one was left unattended.

“SEMA has been tasked with rescuing stranded passengers, providing emergency assistance, and ensuring that injured persons receive prompt medical care,” Maiyaki explained, adding that investigations were underway to determine the cause of the derailment.

While reassuring residents to go about their normal activities, Governor Sani sympathised with victims and their families, pledging his administration’s unwavering commitment to safety and well-being across Kaduna.

Authorities say they are working closely with federal agencies and security operatives to unravel the circumstances surrounding the derailment and to strengthen safeguards on the route.

For many Nigerians, the incident is a sobering reminder of the fragility of transport infrastructure and the importance of restoring confidence in the Abuja–Kaduna rail corridor, once celebrated as a safer alternative to the highway.

By Haruna Yakubu Haruna