The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) investigation into the train derailment that occurred along the Warri-Itakpe rail corridor on Monday, June 8, 2026, has progressed with the retrieval of critical evidence and the completion of key on-site investigative activities.
Following the notification of the accident, the Director General of the NSIB, Capt. Alex Badeh led the Bureau’s investigation team to the accident scene to initiate an inquiry.
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, Funsho Adebiyi, as part of a coordinated response involving relevant transportation stakeholders and authorities.
At the scene, investigators conducted documentation of the accident site, examined the affected rail equipment and infrastructure, gathered operational and technical information, and interviewed relevant personnel connected to the operation of the train.
The recovered evidence obtained from witness interviews, operational records, maintenance documentation, and other investigative sources will be subjected to detailed examination by the Bureau’s specialists.
Speaking at the accident scene, Badeh expressed the Bureau’s condolences to those affected by the accident.
He noted: “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.
“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.
“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.”
The Bureau is working in close collaboration with the Nigerian Railway Corporation, Federal Ministry of Transportation, Federal Ministry of Health, and other relevant federal and state agencies throughout the investigation process.