Reps Summon Transport Minister Over Railway Safety After Abuja–Kaduna Train Derailment

The House of Representatives has summoned the Minister of Transportation, Senator Said Ahmed Alkali, to appear before its Committee on Land Transport within 48 hours following his absence at an emergency session convened to address safety concerns on Nigeria’s railways.

The directive was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Spokesman of the House, Rep. Akin Rotimi Jr.

Reason for Summons

The Committee, chaired by Rep. Blessing Onyeche Onuh (APC, Benue), had convened in Abuja to consider urgent safety issues after a Kaduna-bound passenger train derailed at Asham Station on August 26, 2025. The incident left several passengers injured and damaged infrastructure, forcing the indefinite suspension of services along the Abuja–Kaduna corridor.

Lawmakers expressed disappointment that Senator Alkali failed to attend the meeting, instead verbally delegating a representative — a move the Committee said contravenes House Standing Orders.

While the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr. Kayode Opeifa, was present, the Committee noted with concern that the Managing Director of the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), another key stakeholder, was also absent.

Accountability First

Members condemned the absence of the Minister and the CCECC chief, describing it as “unacceptable,” stressing that no assignment should take precedence over accountability when Nigerian lives are at risk.

“The Committee, having rejected the Minister’s verbal attempt at delegation, adjourned for 48 hours and resolved to issue a formal summons for his personal appearance, and that of the CCECC Managing Director,” the statement read.

The Committee pledged to conduct a thorough inquiry into safety lapses, operational challenges, and contractual issues affecting Nigeria’s railway sector.

What You Should Know

Nigeria’s railway system has faced multiple accidents in recent years, with derailments the most frequent. The Abuja–Kaduna corridor, one of the country’s busiest passenger routes, has been particularly prone to incidents.

• In May 2024, a derailment occurred at Jeremy Station on the same line.
• In August 2025, the Asham derailment again raised alarm over rail safety and maintenance standards.

The House says it expects the Minister and other stakeholders to provide a full briefing on safety measures, project updates, and accountability in the rail sector.