The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has announced that it will publish the preliminary report on the recent Abuja-Kaduna train derailment within the next 23 days.
The incident, which occurred on 26 August 2025 at Asham Station, resulted in injuries to passengers, significant damage to railway infrastructure, and a suspension of train services along the Abuja–Kaduna route.
Addressing journalists in Abuja on Tuesday, the Director-General of the NSIB, Capt. Alex Badeh said, “Within 23 days, we should be able to make public the preliminary report of the investigation. The report would contain some of the factual evidence that is related to the occurrence, at least those that will give us a way forward on the way the investigation is going to go. So within 23 days, we should provide you with the preliminary report.”
Badeh explained that the Bureau needs additional funding to acquire modern investigative tools and provide advanced training for its investigators so that they can handle incidents beyond the aviation sector.
“Some funding has been made available, but it’s not enough. If you look at the NSIB Act again, we’re still battling with the same case of funding. At the NSIB, we’re trying to prevent this accident and funding is one big part of this.
“We require funding to train our investigators, not just in aviation, but now you see with rail, maritime, all the others. Yes, we have some training, but more extensive training is needed, especially with the expansion of rail services in Nigeria, and then more equipment to investigate these accidents. So yes, we do require more funding.”
He stated that the investigation would involve a comprehensive technical assessment of the locomotives, coaches, and other rolling stock to determine the root cause of the derailment and develop safety recommendations.
Badeh said, “The NSIB has appointed an Investigator-in-Charge based on qualifications to organise, conduct, and control the investigation.
“The IIC has full access and control over the accident site, evidence, and relevant records, including the protection and custody of rolling stock, locomotives, contents, and other evidence to prevent disturbance or tampering.
“Evidence protection measures include securing the site, restricting access, and coordinating with railway security authorities, police, and other relevant entities.
“Recorded data from the train, including vigilance control systems, speedometers, on-board CCTV cameras, and over-speed trip mechanisms, will be preserved and analysed.”
The Bureau added that it may engage technical experts to support the IIC and could delegate aspects of the probe where necessary, while maintaining alignment with any judicial panels or tribunals investigating the incident.
The DG noted that the inquiry involves site inspections, track geometry assessments, analysis of switches and infrastructure, and reviews of NRC operational records. The NSIB will also carry out interviews with train crew, staff, responders, passengers, and eyewitnesses, as well as gather organisational information from the operator to determine causal and contributing factors. Recorded data from the train will be carefully analysed and secured from unauthorised use or disclosure in legal proceedings.
Badeh further explained that if the investigation uncovers international implications, the NSIB will notify relevant States and may invite accredited representatives or advisers to take part, while respecting their rights and obligations.
It will be recalled that a Kaduna-bound train derailed in August 26 at KM 49, between Kubwa Station and Asham Station. The incident triggered the immediate deployment of a go-team to the site to collect evidence, engage stakeholders, and commence a formal investigation.
The derailment occurred along the busy route shortly after the train departed Abuja around 11 a.m. en route to Kaduna.
The incident sent passengers into panic, with many fleeing for safety as eyewitnesses described the atmosphere as chaotic and frightening.
According to one passenger, the train suddenly veered off the tracks without warning, causing confusion as passengers scrambled to escape the derailed coaches.
In response, the NRC deployed emergency services to respond promptly to the situation.
“Emergency rescue, medical personnel, and nearby hospitals had already been mobilised. Full compliment of security was already on ground as effort was ongoing to move all passengers on the train back to Abuja safely,” NRC said in a statement.
