The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) says its investigation into the derailment along the Warri-Itakpe rail corridor has reached a significant stage following the retrieval of critical evidence and the completion of key activities at the accident scene.
The derailment occurred on Monday, June 8, 2026, prompting an immediate response from investigators and transportation authorities. The Bureau said evidence collected during the initial phase will help determine the circumstances surrounding the occurrence and support the development of safety recommendations.
According to the NSIB, Director General Captain Alex Badeh Jr. led the Bureau’s team to the accident site shortly after notification of the incident. He was accompanied by the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Mr Kayode Opeifa, and the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Transportation, Engr Funsho Adebiyi.
The visit formed part of a coordinated response involving key transportation stakeholders and government agencies. Investigators immediately commenced field activities aimed at preserving evidence and gathering information relevant to the derailment investigation.
At the scene, the investigation team documented the accident site and examined affected rail infrastructure and equipment. In addition, investigators reviewed operational conditions and collected technical information linked to the train’s operation before the occurrence.
Officials also conducted interviews with personnel connected to the train service. These engagements formed part of efforts to establish a detailed timeline of events leading to the derailment.
Derailment Investigation Focuses on Critical Evidence
The Bureau disclosed that evidence recovered from witness interviews, operational records and maintenance documents would undergo detailed examination by its specialists.
According to the agency, information obtained from various investigative sources will be analysed alongside technical findings from the accident site. This process is expected to assist investigators in identifying contributing factors and any safety issues requiring attention.
Speaking during the visit, Captain Badeh Jr. expressed condolences to families affected by the accident and assured the public of a comprehensive investigation.
“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the families who have lost loved ones, those who sustained injuries, and every passenger affected by this tragic occurrence,” he said.
He added: “We understand the pain and uncertainty such an event brings, and we want the public to be assured that the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has commenced a thorough and evidence-based investigation.”
The Director General stressed that the Bureau would follow the evidence wherever it leads and generate recommendations aimed at preventing future occurrences on Nigeria’s railway network.
“We will follow the facts wherever they lead and generate actionable safety recommendations aimed at systematically addressing identified risks and preventing a recurrence on our railway network,” Badeh Jr. stated.
Meanwhile, the NSIB also focused on supporting passengers affected by the derailment. The Director General met with victims and their families, offering condolences and reassurance during the visit.
He further visited injured passengers receiving treatment at healthcare facilities. According to the Bureau, the visits reflected its commitment to recognising the human impact of transportation accidents while carrying out its safety mandate.
The NSIB said it continues to work closely with the Nigerian Railway Corporation, the Federal Ministry of Transportation, the Federal Ministry of Health and other relevant federal and state agencies throughout the investigation process.
The Bureau also acknowledged the support provided by the NRC, the Federal Ministry of Transportation and the Nigerian Air Force. According to the agency, that cooperation enabled the efficient deployment of personnel and access to operational facilities and information.
However, the NSIB reiterated that its investigation remains strictly safety-focused and non-punitive. The Bureau emphasised that its role is not to apportion blame or determine civil or criminal liability.
Instead, the investigation seeks to establish the facts surrounding the derailment, identify causal and contributing factors and recommend measures that can strengthen railway safety nationwide.
Upon completion of the investigation, the NSIB said it will publish its findings and issue recommendations designed to improve rail transportation safety and reduce the likelihood of similar incidents in the future.
