NRC Suspends Warri–Itakpe Train Services Over Operational, Safety Checks

The Nigerian Railway Corporation has temporarily halted train services on the Warri–Itakpe corridor, effective immediately, citing operational challenges and technical advice from its engineers.

A statement issued on Wednesday by the corporation’s Chief Public Relations Officer, Callistus Unyimadu, said the suspension was necessary to protect passenger safety and allow for comprehensive operational assessments on the standard gauge line.

“The temporary suspension has become necessary to enable the Corporation to carry out critical operational assessments aimed at ensuring continued safety, reliability, and improved service delivery on the corridor,” the statement read.

The NRC explained that the decision, though sudden, was unavoidable to guarantee safe and efficient rail transportation for the travelling public.

The suspension is expected to affect hundreds of passengers, including traders and civil servants, who have increasingly relied on the train service as a safer and cheaper alternative to road travel amid rising fuel costs and worsening highway insecurity.

The Corporation appealed for patience and understanding, assuring passengers that efforts were already underway to resolve the issues and restore normal operations as soon as possible.

It added that passengers would be informed of the resumption date before the end of the week.