The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has expressed serious concern over the vandalisation of key signalling infrastructure along the Lagos–Ibadan Standard Gauge corridor, particularly between Agege and Agbado stations.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday by Callistus Unyimadu, the NRC’s Chief Public Relations Officer.
Details of the Incident
According to the statement, unknown individuals tampered with vital signalling equipment, including the removal of signal machine cap protectors and cutting of connection cables on Switch Point Machine No. 2.
The damage was discovered during a routine inspection of the rail corridor by NRC engineers.
Unyimadu described the act as “deliberate sabotage of national infrastructure,” warning that such interference poses serious safety risks to both passengers and railway personnel.
Despite the damage, the NRC confirmed that train operations on the Lagos–Ibadan route remain unaffected, assuring the public that movement along the corridor continues without interruption.
Security Investigation Underway
The NRC stated that security agencies have been notified to launch a full investigation into the incident and apprehend those responsible for the vandalism.
The Corporation vowed to ensure that the culprits face the full weight of the law.
“The Corporation strongly condemns these acts of sabotage against national infrastructure. Such actions not only disrupt smooth train operations but also endanger the safety of passengers and railway staff,” the statement read in part.
Background: Growing Concern Over Railway Infrastructure Safety
The incident comes just weeks after the Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) released a report highlighting the deteriorating state of rail infrastructure along the Abuja–Kaduna corridor, following a recent accident in the area.
The NRC has repeatedly lamented the impact of vandalism and theft on its facilities — from rail tracks and signalling systems to communication cables and power installations — often attributed to metal scavengers and criminal syndicates.
Public Awareness and Security Measures
Reaffirming its commitment to safe and reliable railway services, the NRC urged residents and communities along rail corridors to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity near railway installations.
“We appeal to members of the public to support efforts to protect our national infrastructure. Community vigilance is key to ensuring uninterrupted and safe rail transport,” the NRC added.
Conclusion
While train operations on the Lagos–Ibadan line remain stable, the NRC’s warning underscores the ongoing threat of vandalism to Nigeria’s expanding railway network — a key component of the government’s infrastructure development agenda.
The Corporation said it remains committed to maintaining safety standards and collaborating with law enforcement to prevent future sabotage.