Train Resumes: NRC Managing Director Travels With Passengers on Abuja-Kaduna Route

Officially, the Abuja–Kaduna Train Service (AKTS) reopened on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, after weeks of rigorous safety checks, inspections, and employee training conducted by the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC).

After leaving Idu Station in Abuja and making a stop at Kubwa to collect passengers, the first train made it to Rigasa Station in Kaduna. On the same day, a return trip was planned, signifying that passenger train operations on the line had fully resumed.

The NRC’s Chief Public Relations Officer, Callistus Unyimadu, issued a statement on behalf of the management confirming this.

NRC’s Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, accompanied workers and passengers on the first journey.

His purpose in being there was to observe the resume ride firsthand and contribute to the restoration of public trust in the service.

When Dr. Opeifa spoke to reporters after arriving in Rigasa, he was pleased and praised God Almighty for His favor during the company’s recuperation.

He emphasized the vital role that a contemporary railway network plays in promoting national growth and unity, pointing out that the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has made significant investments in rail infrastructure throughout the nation.

The NRC chief reaffirmed his resolve to turn the Corporation around by giving priority to finishing up ongoing projects, optimizing the nation’s rail assets, restoring all serviceable rolling stock, growing services, enhancing customer satisfaction, and modernizing operations and efficiency, especially along the AKTS corridor.

He revealed that a specialized Customer Service Department has been set up to enhance service delivery and quickly handle passenger problems.

Regarding safety, Dr. Opeifa gave passengers and employees the company’s steadfast dedication to safety and well-being.

To protect all parties involved, he said, covert but efficient security measures have been implemented in addition to the obvious presence of police and military personnel in stations and along the route.

Dr. Opeifa made it clear that he is committed to making the NRC a premier, passenger-friendly service provider that can propel socioeconomic development by establishing safe, effective, and modern rail transportation networks across the country.