The Senate has launched an official investigation into operational inefficiencies and rising insecurity in Nigeria’s railway network, following growing concerns over declining service on major routes.
During plenary on Thursday, January 29, 2026, senators expressed alarm that services on key lines, including the Abuja–Kaduna corridor, had worsened, citing frequent delays, reduced trip frequencies and security challenges along the tracks, which have eroded public confidence in rail transport.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio inaugurated an ad hoc committee to review the performance of the Nigerian railway system.
The panel, first set up in November 2025 under Senator Adams Oshiomhole, has been tasked with examining funding, project execution, operational practices, security arrangements and overall service quality, with a mandate to report back within six weeks.
Lawmakers noted that the Abuja–Kaduna service, once a benchmark for reliability, has experienced slower average speeds and fewer daily trips, forcing passengers to rely on slower road transport alternatives.
Senators also cited vandalism, infrastructure damage and gaps in security as major contributors to the rail sector’s operational decline.
Senator Abdul Ningi highlighted what he described as “poorly executed contracts” and questioned why revenue generated on key routes had not translated into improved service.
He added that journey times between Abuja and Kaduna, which initially averaged one and a half hours, now often exceed three hours.
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The Senate’s action builds on previous oversight efforts in late 2025, when a panel was established to investigate recurring derailments, mechanical failures and vandalism on the Itakpe–Warri standard gauge line.
That committee was charged with scrutinising contracts, project financing and the technical integrity of rail infrastructure nationwide.
In inaugurating the latest probe, Akpabio said the investigation aims to identify the causes of poor performance and recommend measures to improve efficiency and safety.
Lawmakers said the findings will guide legislative actions to strengthen oversight, enhance management and restore public trust in Nigeria’s railway system.