The Nigerian Senate launches an investigation into inefficiencies and security concerns in the country’s railway system following growing complaints about declining service delivery.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the probe follows a personal explanation during plenary highlighting the deteriorating state of key rail corridors, particularly the Abuja–Kaduna line. Senate President Godswill Akpabio inaugurates an ad hoc committee to examine project execution, funding, operational efficiency, and service delivery, with a six-week deadline to submit its report.
The committee, first constituted in November 2025, is chaired by Senator Adams Oshiomhole. Mediaplusng.com reports that the panel will also review contracts, revenue generation, and maintenance challenges to ensure accountability and improvements in Nigeria’s rail network.
Senator Akpabio expresses serious concern over the speed of the Abuja–Kaduna train, lamenting that a bicycle or keke napep could reach Kaduna faster than the train due to delays and operational shortcomings.
Earlier, Senator Abdul Ningi raised alarms about the Abuja–Kaduna–Kano rail line, alleging poorly executed contracts and substandard service despite the line generating over 1.8 billion naira in revenue. He notes that what used to be a one-and-a-half-hour journey now takes around three and a half hours.
The senator also highlights reduced train operations on the route, now limited to a single daily trip departing Abuja at 7:00 a.m., compared to multiple daily services previously available.
The Senate emphasizes the need for urgent reforms to restore efficiency, improve commuter safety, and ensure that public investments in rail infrastructure translate into reliable and timely service for Nigerians.
