The Transportation Correspondents Association of Nigeria (TCAN) has called on security agencies to intensify surveillance and protection of railway assets nationwide, warning that persistent vandalism is undermining the Federal Government’s railway modernization efforts.
In a statement issued over the weekend, TCAN Chairman, Mr. Tola Adenubi, expressed concern that the unchecked destruction of railway infrastructure was reversing the gains made in recent years.
The association commended the Nigerian Police Force Railway Command for the swift arrest of two suspects, Ibrahim Abdullahi (22) and Sani Ibrahim (24), both from Rigasa in Kaduna, for allegedly vandalizing and selling railway electrical and signaling equipment near the Rigasa Train Station.
Adenubi noted that the recurrent attacks on railway facilities are not only costly but also dangerous, citing the recent Abuja–Kaduna passenger train mishap between Kubwa and Asham stations, which he said was partly caused by vandalized rail components.
He urged security agencies to expand their investigations to include buyers of stolen railway materials, particularly metal smelting companies and foundries that serve as a market for the looted assets.
“As long as there is a market for stolen iron metals, the onslaught against railway assets will persist,” Adenubi said. “Security agencies must beam their searchlight on smelting firms and foundries to scrutinize how they source their materials.”
The TCAN chairman stressed the need for increased daily patrols along railway corridors to prevent further damage that could derail the nation’s rail development agenda.
He also commended the leadership of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) under Dr. Kayode Opeifa for its prompt response to reports of vandalism across the network, while urging continued collaboration among all stakeholders to curb the menace.
“We acknowledge the proactive measures taken by the NRC management, but all hands must be on deck to safeguard our railway infrastructure,” TCAN stated.
With rising cases of vandalism threatening passenger safety and government investments, TCAN’s call adds to growing public concern over the need for stronger protection and prosecution of offenders in Nigeria’s expanding rail sector.
