The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) will release a preliminary report on the August 26, 2025, Abuja-Kaduna train derailment within the next 23 days.
The incident, which occurred at Asham Station, resulted in injuries to passengers, significant damage to railway infrastructure, and a suspension of train services along the Abuja-Kaduna route.
NSIB Director-General, Capt. Alex Badeh, explained that the report would contain factual evidence related to the occurrence, providing a way forward for the investigation.
The bureau has appointed an Investigator-in-Charge to lead the probe, with a focus on determining the root cause of the derailment and developing safety recommendations.
The investigation involves a comprehensive technical assessment of the locomotives, coaches, and other rolling stock, as well as site inspections, track geometry assessments, and reviews of operational records.
Badeh emphasized the need for additional funding to acquire modern investigative tools and provide advanced training for investigators to handle incidents beyond the aviation sector effectively.
The NSIB has secured the accident site, restricting access and coordinating with railway security authorities, police, and other relevant entities to prevent evidence tampering.
The bureau will analyze recorded data from the train, including vigilance control systems, speedometers, on-board CCTV cameras, and over-speed trip mechanisms. Interviews with train crew, staff, responders, passengers, and eyewitnesses will also be conducted to determine causal and contributing factors.
If international implications are uncovered, the NSIB will notify relevant states and invite accredited representatives to participate.
