The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has strongly condemned the rising wave of attacks on its train services along the Abuja–Kaduna rail corridor, describing the incidents as dangerous, disruptive, and economically damaging.
In the most recent attack, which occurred at about Kilometer 177 on the corridor, unidentified individuals reportedly lined the tracks and hurled stones at a moving train, shattering the windscreen of the lead locomotive.
The Corporation in a statement signed by its Chief Public Relations Officer, Callistus Unyimadu, expressed grave concern that similar incidents have been recorded repeatedly over the past two weeks in multiple locations, including Gidan Busa/Sarki Gora Village in Kakau District, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State. These attacks, NRC noted, pose serious threats to passenger safety, railway personnel, and operational integrity.
According statement, no fewer than six such incidents have been reported along the corridor, compounding the already challenging conditions under which the Corporation delivers critical transport services to the public.
NRC warned that the persistent attacks amount to economic sabotage, capable of undermining significant Federal Government investments in the railway sector, while also endangering lives and damaging vital infrastructure.
Despite the situation, the Corporation confirmed that train services have continued, backed by heightened safety protocols and the unwavering professionalism of its personnel to ensure safe journeys for passengers.
The NRC also commended security agencies for their sustained collaboration and dedication in protecting railway corridors and safeguarding lives and assets.
The statement revealed that efforts are ongoing in partnership with security operatives, community leaders, and other stakeholders to enhance surveillance, track down those responsible, and ensure they face justice.
The Corporation appealed to residents and communities along railway routes to play an active role in protecting national assets by reporting suspicious activities and discouraging acts of vandalism.
It cautioned that continued attacks could disrupt service delivery if not urgently addressed through collective action.
The NRC reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining safe, secure, and efficient rail transport nationwide, assuring passengers that all necessary measures are being implemented to protect lives and railway infrastructure.