The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has voiced deep concern over a surge in assaults targeting trains operating along the Abuja-Kaduna corridor. This follows a recent episode where unidentified individuals, allegedly from nearby villages, hurled stones at a moving train, causing damage to the lead locomotive’s windscreen near kilometer 177 on the highway.
In a statement released by NRC spokesperson Callistus Unyimadu, the corporation highlighted that this incident is part of a worrying trend. Over the past two weeks, at least six similar attacks have been reported in locations such as Gidan Busa and Sarki Gora Village in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State. These acts not only endanger passengers and railway staff but also threaten critical infrastructure and represent a form of economic sabotage.
Despite these challenges, the NRC emphasized that train services continue to operate under heightened security measures. Railway personnel remain vigilant to ensure safe travel for passengers, while the corporation collaborates with security agencies, community leaders, and stakeholders to enhance surveillance, identify perpetrators, and bring them to justice.
The NRC urged communities living along railway lines to assist in protecting rail assets by reporting suspicious activities and discouraging criminal behavior. It warned that without urgent and collective action, the frequency of attacks could disrupt service delivery and undermine government investments in the railway sector.