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By Oscar Okhifo
Seven passengers injured in Tuesday’s Abuja–Kaduna train derailment are receiving medical treatment after receiving first aid at the scene, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed.
The accident, which occurred around 11 a.m. between Kubwa and Asham stations, caused panic among travelers but recorded no fatalities. Rescue officials said swift multi-agency intervention ensured that the injured were promptly evacuated for further care.
In a statement signed by its Head of Press Unit, Manzo Ezekiel, NEMA explained that its Director General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, led the rescue team to the site of the derailment. The agency added that the operation was coordinated with support from the Nigerian military, the Police, the Immigration Service, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and other emergency responders.
“The incident occurred after 11 a.m. today. Although no fatalities were recorded, seven passengers sustained varying degrees of injury. They were promptly administered first aid at the scene before being taken to hospital for further medical attention,” the statement read.
NEMA further disclosed that investigators from the Ministry of Transportation, alongside officials of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, will probe the cause of the accident.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has expressed sadness over the derailment. In a post on his official X account from Brazil, where he is on an official engagement, the President said his thoughts and prayers are with the injured and their families.
“I am deeply saddened by this incident. My heartfelt prayers are with the injured, their families, and all passengers who went through this distressing experience,” he wrote, adding that he is awaiting a full briefing on the matter.
President Tinubu assured that the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) is already addressing the situation and pledged that measures will be taken to strengthen rail safety and prevent similar accidents in the future.