The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has strongly condemned the increasing attacks on its train operations along the Abuja–Kaduna rail corridor by suspected vandals and criminal elements.
The Chief Public Relations Officer of the NRC, Mr Callistus Unyimadu, made this known in a statement on Sunday in Lagos.
Unyimadu said the latest incident occurred around Kilometer 177 on the Abuja–Kaduna rail corridor, where unknown persons gathered along the track and pelted stones at a moving train.
He added that the attack damaged the windscreen of the leading locomotive.
“The corporation notes with deep concern that similar attacks have occurred within the last two weeks in other locations, including Gidan Busa/Sarki Gora Village, Kakau District, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State, among others.
“This development poses a serious danger to railway operations, passengers, and operational personnel.
“Management has so far recorded similar incidents in more than six locations along the corridor.
“This worsens the already challenging operational conditions under which the corporation continues to provide essential transport services to Nigerians,” he said.
Unyimadu noted that the persistent attacks not only endanger lives and damage critical infrastructure but also constitute economic sabotage capable of disrupting national transportation.
He pointed out that the attacks undermine the Federal Government’s huge investments in the railway sector.
“Despite these unfortunate incidents, train operations have continued with necessary safety precautions and strict vigilance by railway personnel, who have shown great commitment and professionalism in ensuring passengers reach their destinations safely.
“The management specially acknowledges the efforts and support of security operatives working tirelessly with the NRC to secure railway corridors and protect passengers and assets,” he said.
“The corporation is working closely with security agencies, community leaders, and other stakeholders to strengthen surveillance along the corridor, identify the perpetrators, and bring them to justice.
“The NRC calls on residents and communities along railway corridors to support efforts to protect railway infrastructure by reporting suspicious activities and discouraging criminal attacks on trains and installations.”
Unyimadu warned that continuous attacks on railway operations could negatively affect service delivery if urgent collective action is not taken.
“The NRC remains committed to safe, secure, and efficient train operations across the country and assures passengers that every necessary measure is being taken to safeguard lives and railway assets,” he said.
