Minister of Transportation Sets Up Committee to Probe Abuja–Kaduna Train Derailment

Minister of Transportation Sets Up Committee to Probe Abuja–Kaduna Train Derailment

ABUJA — The Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Ahmed Alkali, has constituted a high-powered committee to investigate the Abuja–Kaduna train derailment that occurred on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at Jerre, Kaduna State.

The minister, in a statement issued by the ministry’s Press and Information Department, said the committee is mandated to uncover both the immediate and remote causes of the incident, recommend preventive measures, and propose long-term solutions to strengthen rail safety and efficiency in Nigeria.

Expressing concern for the safety of passengers, Alkali emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring public confidence in the nation’s rail system.

The committee is chaired by Musa O. Ibrahim, Director overseeing the Office of the Permanent Secretary, with Barr. Omotola Olusegun, Director of Legal Services, serving as Secretary. Other members include:

• Prof. Danwaka Shuaibu, Senior Technical Adviser (HMT)
• Engr. Zirra Finbar, Director of Rail Transport Services
• Dr. Kayode Opeifa, Managing Director, Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC)
• Engr. I.A. Ebuniwe, Railway Inspector
• Representatives of Technics Engineering Architecture Marketing Nig. Ltd and China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC)
• Representative of Civil Society Organizations
• Two passenger representatives (male and female)

The Minister stressed that the findings and recommendations of the committee will be critical in preventing future derailments and in advancing the safety, reliability, and modernization of Nigeria’s railway system.