I await full briefing before taking action on Abuja-Kaduna train derailment – Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has expressed his deep sadness over the recent Abuja-Kaduna train derailment, assuring the public that he is awaiting a full briefing to ensure swift action and support for all those affected.

The incident, which occurred on Tuesday shortly after the train departed from Abuja, has led to a temporary suspension of all operations on the route by the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC).

In a statement on his official X handle, President Tinubu conveyed his heartfelt prayers for the Abuja-Kaduna train passengers and their families.

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“Even while in Brazil, I have received reports of today’s (Tuesday’s) Abuja–Kaduna train derailment.

“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.

He added that he is staying updated on the developments, emphasising that “necessary steps are expected to be taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future.”

Meanwhile, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, Kayode Opeifa, has taken personal responsibility for the derailment.

In an appearance on Channels Television’s “The Morning Brief,” Opeifa stated, “Let me say, beyond apologising to Nigeria, I want to say as the managing director and chief executive, I take full responsibility. And in the case of safety, there is no indifference. Once it happens, the chief executive must take responsibility. In this case, I am taking responsibility.”

The NRC chief also provided an update on the casualties, confirming that four passengers sustained serious injuries, while others were discharged immediately.

He noted that the corporation would be following up with all 618 people on board to address any post-traumatic stress.

An investigation into the cause of the derailment is currently underway, with technical staff from the NRC, alongside the Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) and other relevant agencies, deployed to the site.

The NRC has confirmed that operations on the Abuja-Kaduna line will remain suspended until further notice.