The Nigerian Railway Corporation condemned escalating vandalism of railway tracks and equipment, warning of severe risks to train operations and passenger safety.
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) raised alarm over a sharp rise in vandalism of railway infrastructure across the country on Monday, May 12, 2025. The corporation’s Managing Director, Mr. Fidet Okhiria, issued the warning during a press briefing in Abuja, citing damage to tracks, bolts, and signaling systems.
Okhiria reported over 50 vandalism incidents in 2025, with the Abuja-Kaduna and Lagos-Ibadan routes hardest hit. He noted that stolen components disrupt services and endanger lives, referencing a near-derailment incident in April. The NRC has spent millions on repairs, straining its budget.
The corporation urged communities along rail corridors to report suspicious activities and announced plans to deploy drones for surveillance. The Nigeria Police have arrested 12 suspects, with prosecutions ongoing.
The NRC appealed for public cooperation to protect railway assets, emphasizing their critical role in Nigeria’s transport network and economic development.
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