Critical Signal Damage Discovered on Lagos–Ibadan Rail Line — NRC

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has raised alarm over the vandalisation of critical signalling equipment along the Lagos–Ibadan Standard Gauge corridor, warning that such acts threaten the safety and reliability of train operations.

In a statement attributed to the NRC’s Chief Public Relations Officer, Callistus Unyimadu, the corporation disclosed that the vandalism occurred between Agege and Agbado stations, where unidentified persons tampered with parts of the signalling system.

According to the reports, the incident involved the removal of signal machine cap protectors and the cutting of connection cables on Switch Point Machine No. 2 — vital components used to control train movements and ensure communication along the route. The damage was discovered during a routine inspection of the line.

Unyimadu described the act as a deliberate sabotage of national infrastructure, warning that such interference could compromise passenger safety. He, however, assured the public that train operations on the Lagos–Ibadan corridor remain unaffected, adding that security agencies have been notified to investigate and apprehend those responsible.

The corporation reiterated its commitment to maintaining safe and efficient railway services and urged residents and communities along the corridor to report any suspicious activity near rail facilities.

The latest incident comes amid renewed concerns over the protection of rail infrastructure across the country. Industry observers note that vandalism, theft, and encroachment continue to pose major challenges to the sustainability of Nigeria’s modern railway network, which has become a critical link for passenger and freight movement in the southwest corridor.