The Nigerian Railway Corporation has temporarily suspended operations on the Warri–Itakpe Train Service due to operational challenges and technical recommendations from its engineers.
The suspension, which took immediate effect, was announced on May 27, 2026, in a statement issued by the NRC’s Chief Public Relations Officer, Callistus Unyimadu.
According to the corporation, the decision was taken to ensure passenger safety and allow for critical assessments on the rail corridor.
“The Nigerian Railway Corporation wishes to inform the general public and esteemed passengers that the Warri–Itakpe Train Service has been temporarily suspended due to operational exigencies and technical advice from our engineers,” the statement read.
The NRC explained that the temporary shutdown became necessary to enable engineers carry out comprehensive operational checks aimed at improving safety, reliability and service delivery on the standard gauge route.
“The temporary suspension has become necessary to enable the Corporation to carry out critical operational assessments aimed at ensuring continued safety, reliability, and improved service delivery on the corridor,” the statement added.
The development is expected to affect hundreds of passengers, traders and workers who rely on the rail service as a safer and more affordable alternative to road travel amid rising fuel costs and security concerns on highways.
The corporation, however, appealed for patience and understanding, assuring passengers that efforts were ongoing to restore operations as quickly as possible.
“The NRC regrets the inconvenience this development may cause passengers and other stakeholders, and assures the public that efforts are currently ongoing to resolve the issues within the shortest possible time,” the statement noted.
The agency also assured intending travellers that updates on the resumption of train services would be communicated before the end of the week.
“Passengers and intending travellers will be duly informed before the end of the week on the date for the resumption of normal train operations,” the NRC stated.