The Nigerian Railway Corporation has expressed growing concern over a series of attacks targeting train operations along the Abuja–Kaduna rail corridor, following a recent incident in which a moving train was pelted with stones.
The attack reportedly occurred around kilometre 177 on the Abuja-Kaduna railway corridor, where a group of unidentified individuals gathered along the tracks and threw stones at a passing train. The incident resulted in damage to the windscreen of the lead locomotive.
In a statement, the corporation’s spokesperson, Callistus Unyimadu, described the situation as alarming, pointing out that similar cases have been recorded within the last two weeks. One such incident was reported in Gidan Busa/Sarki Gora Village in Kakau District, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
According to the statement, “About six attacks have been documented along the corridor within this period, posing significant threats to passenger safety, railway personnel, and critical infrastructure.”
The NRC warned that the repeated acts go beyond mere vandalism, describing them as dangerous and economically damaging. The corporation noted that such incidents could disrupt national transportation systems and undermine ongoing government investments in the railway sector.
Despite the challenges, train services have continued, albeit under stricter safety protocols. Railway personnel are maintaining heightened vigilance to ensure passengers can travel safely along the corridor.
The corporation also disclosed that it is working closely with security agencies, community leaders, and other stakeholders to improve surveillance, identify those responsible, and ensure they are brought to justice.
It called on communities living near railway lines to play an active role in safeguarding infrastructure by reporting suspicious movements and discouraging criminal activity.
The NRC further warned that continued attacks could affect service delivery if urgent and collective measures are not taken to address the situation.
