The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has confirmed that passenger train operations along the Port Harcourt to Aba corridor will resume on Tuesday, September 9, following a brief suspension for essential maintenance. The announcement, made on September 8, by Onyedikachi Onovo, the NRC’s eastern district spokesperson, in Enugu, aims to reassure commuters in Rivers State, where the railway supports vital economic and social connections. The temporary halt, which began on September 5, 2025, was prompted by necessary repairs to ensure the safety and efficiency of the 63-kilometer route, a key segment of the broader Port Harcourt-Maiduguri rail project.
The suspension followed an incident on September 3, 2025, when a train experienced an unexpected mechanical fault near Imo River at approximately 4:22 p.m., stranding passengers. A widely circulated social media video showed affected travelers trekking long distances and crossing a stream to find alternative transportation. NRC engineers attempted to address the issue on-site, but the fault persisted, necessitating the deployment of a replacement engine, Loco 2306, to assist the stranded train. Passengers were either safely transported back or provided alternative routes. The affected train has since been moved to Port Harcourt for comprehensive repairs, with rigorous quality checks underway to ensure its readiness for service.
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The NRC has expressed regret for the inconvenience, particularly for commuters in Rivers and Abia States who rely on the route for affordable travel and commerce. To address the disruption, the corporation is offering refunds or replacement tickets to affected passengers, who are advised to visit stations in Port Harcourt or Aba with proof of payment. “We deeply value the patience of our passengers,” Onovo stated, emphasizing the NRC’s commitment to safer, customer-focused rail services under its renewed hope agenda.
This rail line, operational since April 30, 2024, plays a significant role in connecting urban and rural communities, supporting trade, and easing road congestion in Nigeria’s South-South and South-East regions. The resumption of services is expected to restore confidence in the railway’s reliability, particularly for Rivers State residents who benefit from its economic contributions. The NRC continues to prioritize infrastructure upgrades to prevent future disruptions, ensuring seamless travel for thousands of passengers.
