The announcement comes directly from NRC’s Chief Public Relations Officer, Callistus Unyimadu, who detailed the corporation’s tireless efforts to restore the rail line to full operational capacity. 

“The Abuja–Kaduna passenger train service is set to resume operations next week, following the successful completion of repair and safety checks on the affected section of track at Asham,” Unyimadu stated in a press release issued on Saturday. 

He added that further details on the exact resumption date and revised schedule would be communicated in the coming days.

The suspension began on August 26, 2025, when an Abuja-bound train derailed near the Asham station, the second such incident at the site within 13 months. 

The mishap, which involved all coaches and locomotives veering off the tracks, was later attributed to human error, overspeeding, poor maintenance, and a faulty track switch, according to an investigation by the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB). 

While no fatalities were reported, several passengers sustained injuries, with NRC Managing Director Kayode Opeifa describing the scene as chaotic and taking full responsibility during a subsequent interview.

In response to the accident, NRC engineers swiftly re-railed the derailed assets and transported them to designated workshops for thorough assessments and repairs. 

The main line has now been restored to a level permitting safe operations, though work on the secondary track will continue in parallel to ensure comprehensive infrastructure integrity. 

“Our team has worked tirelessly to ensure both the infrastructure and rolling stock are restored to the highest safety standards in line with global best practices,” Unyimadu emphasized.

Prioritizing passenger welfare amid the disruption, the corporation has processed refunds for 512 out of the 583 individuals on board the affected train, with ongoing efforts to settle the remaining claims. 

Unyimadu expressed gratitude to the Federal Ministry of Transportation, security agencies, media outlets, and other stakeholders for their support during the recovery period. 

“The NRC appreciates the patience and understanding of our esteemed passengers and assures the general public that their safety, comfort, and satisfaction remain our top priority,” he concluded.