Warri–Itakpe Train Tragedy: NRC Confirms Recovery of Wreckage, Victims Discharged as Track Repairs Begin

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) says it has completed the recovery of all equipment involved in the June 8 Warri–Itakpe Train Service accident, while efforts to support victims and restore rail operations continue.

The incident occurred at about 4:17 p.m. near the Goodluck Jonathan Railway Station in Agbor, Delta State. The train, which departed Itakpe at noon en route to Ujevwu in Warri, was carrying 442 passengers and 40 personnel, including crew members, security operatives, medical staff, cleaners, caterers and other support workers.

According to the NRC, emergency response teams were immediately deployed following the accident. The corporation worked alongside the Delta and Kogi State governments, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), medical responders, local authorities and residents of nearby communities to evacuate passengers and provide emergency assistance.

While all passengers and personnel on board were accounted for, the accident claimed five lives and left several others injured.

The corporation disclosed that all injured passengers who were admitted to hospitals in Agbor and neighbouring communities have since received treatment and been discharged. However, one NRC employee who sustained severe injuries remains under specialist medical care.

NRC also commended the management and medical teams of General Hospital Owa Oyibu, Owa Alero Hospital and Central Hospital Agbor for their swift intervention and care of victims during the emergency.

As part of ongoing support efforts, the corporation has established a Medical and Victim Support Committee to engage injured passengers and bereaved families. Chairman of the committee, Dr. Osarunwense Igbinogu, said members have already visited injured passengers and relatives of victims in Agbor, Asaba and Ugbolu, with further condolence visits planned in Warri.

The corporation has also opened dedicated communication lines for passengers, families and members of the public seeking information about those on board, lost property, medical follow-up and other enquiries linked to the incident.

Meanwhile, attention has shifted to restoring rail services. NRC confirmed that civil engineering teams have commenced repairs on the affected section of track following the successful recovery of all four capsized coaches and two derailed coaches from the accident scene.

The corporation said it would continue working with relevant authorities on investigations while implementing recommendations aimed at improving safety and strengthening confidence in the nation’s railway system.