Assaults Prompt NRC to Appeal for Public Assistance in Safeguarding Railway Services

The Nigerian Railway Corporation has strongly denounced the rising wave of attacks on train operations along the Abuja–Kaduna rail corridor, which are believed to be carried out by suspected vandals and criminal elements, and is urging communities to provide greater support in safeguarding railway infrastructure.

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A recent incident occurred at Kilometer 177 on the Abuja–Kaduna rail line, where a group of unidentified individuals gathered along the track and hurled stones at a moving train, causing damage to the windscreen of the leading locomotive.

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The corporation has expressed concern over the fact that similar attacks have taken place within the last two weeks at multiple locations, including Gidan Busa/Sarki Gora Village and Kakau District in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

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These repeated incidents pose significant risks to the safety of passengers, personnel, and rail operations, according to the NRC.

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More than six separate attacks have been recorded along the corridor in recent times, exacerbating operational challenges and threatening the continuity of safe rail services, the NRC reported.

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The management of the NRC views these attacks as acts of economic sabotage that have the potential to undermine national transportation infrastructure and the Federal Government’s investments in the rail sector.

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Despite the incidents, train services have continued to operate with enhanced safety measures in place, and staff remain dedicated to ensuring the safe transportation of passengers to their destinations.

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The NRC has acknowledged the support it has received from security agencies, which are working collaboratively with the corporation to secure rail corridors and protect passengers and assets, despite the ongoing threats.

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The corporation is working in conjunction with security agencies, community leaders, and other stakeholders to improve surveillance, identify perpetrators, and bring them to justice.

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The NRC is calling on communities situated along railway corridors to assist in protecting rail infrastructure by reporting any suspicious activities and discouraging attacks on trains and installations.

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The corporation has warned that if collective action is not taken promptly, continued vandalism could disrupt service delivery.

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The NRC has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring safe and efficient rail operations across the country, and has assured that all necessary measures are being taken to protect lives and infrastructure.