The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has announced that the Warri–Itakpe Train Service (WITS) will resume operations on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, after a temporary suspension for maintenance and safety checks.
In a statement signed by Callistus Unyimadu, Chief Public Relations Officer of the NRC, the corporation explained that the suspension was necessary to ensure the safety, comfort, and reliability of passengers.
“The temporary suspension was necessary to carry out critical repairs, maintenance, and system checks on the track and rolling stock to ensure the comfort, reliability, and safety of passengers,” the statement read.
According to the NRC, the decision aligns with its commitment to providing safe and efficient rail transport services while maintaining high operational standards.
The Warri–Itakpe rail line was suspended on April 9, 2025, after a major technical disruption affected train services on both routes. The incident occurred around 1:38 p.m. and impacted the 8:00 a.m. train from Warri and the 2:00 p.m. service from Itakpe.
Following the disruption, the NRC announced a 72-hour suspension to allow for a full audit and resolution of technical issues. Although the faults were resolved by April 21, the corporation extended the suspension to carry out additional safety checks and system upgrades aimed at improving long-term operational stability in line with global standards.
Ticket Sales and Train Schedule
The NRC also disclosed that its online booking portal — https://nrc-fane.ng — will reopen by 12 noon on Monday, October 27, 2025, to allow passengers to purchase tickets ahead of the resumption.
Train operations will restart with seven coaches, including six standard-class and one business-class coach. The updated train timetable, which will include temporary speed restrictions for safety monitoring, is expected to be released on Monday.
The corporation expressed gratitude to passengers for their patience during the suspension period.
“The Corporation sincerely apologizes to its esteemed passengers and stakeholders for the inconveniences experienced during the period of suspension and appreciates their patience and understanding,” it added.
Managing Director of NRC, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, assured travelers of the agency’s renewed dedication to ensuring safe and reliable operations on the Warri–Itakpe corridor.
Additional Context
In February 2025, train operations on the corridor were briefly halted due to a technical fault but resumed on February 22. Earlier, in July 2024, a derailment near Ujevwu, Delta State, led to a two-day suspension for maintenance, though no injuries were reported.
