NSIB advances Warri-Itakpe derailment probe, retrieves key evidence
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) says its investigation into the train derailment along the Warri-Itakpe rail corridor on Monday, 8 June 2026, has progressed with the retrieval of critical evidence. NSIB Director of Public Affairs Funke Adebayo-Arowojobe stated that Director General Alex Badeh Jr led the investigative team to the accident scene, accompanied by Nigerian Railway Corporation Managing Director Dr Kayode Opeifa and Federal Ministry of Transportation Permanent Secretary Mr Funsho Adebiyi. At the scene, investigators documented the site, examined affected rail equipment and infrastructure, gathered operational and technical information, and interviewed relevant personnel. Evidence from witness interviews, operational records, and maintenance documentation will be subjected to detailed analysis by NSIB specialists. Badeh expressed condolences to families of the deceased and injured passengers, emphasizing the bureau’s commitment to a thorough, evidence-based, safety-focused, non‑punitive investigation aimed at identifying causal factors and issuing recommendations to prevent recurrence. The NSIB is working closely with the NRC, Federal Ministries of Transportation and Health, and the Nigeria Air Force throughout the process. No timeline for completion was given, but the bureau pledged to publish findings and safety recommendations upon conclusion. Passengers using the Warri-Itakpe corridor should monitor official NSIB and NRC channels for updates or service advisories.