The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has announced the temporary suspension of the Warri–Itakpe Train Service (WITS), citing operational exigencies and technical recommendations from its engineering team.
The decision was disclosed in a statement on Wednesday by the NRC Chief Public Relations Officer, Callistus Unyimadu, who said the suspension is aimed at carrying out critical operational assessments to ensure safety, reliability, and improved service delivery along the corridor.
According to the corporation, the move follows expert advice from its engineers and is necessary to address underlying technical issues affecting the route.
“The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) says it has temporarily suspended the Warri–Itakpe Train Service (WITS) due to operational exigencies and technical advice from its engineers,” the statement read in part.
The NRC expressed regret over the inconvenience the suspension may cause passengers and stakeholders, adding that updates on the resumption date will be communicated before the end of the week.
It also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining safe, efficient, and customer-friendly rail transport services nationwide.
The suspension comes amid ongoing government efforts to support rail users, including a recent 50 percent fare reduction on all NRC passenger services to ease transportation costs during the Eid-el-Kabir period. The discount, which began on May 26, 2026, is expected to run until June 1, 2026.
Under the arrangement, passengers who had already purchased tickets at full price are eligible for a rebate that can be used for future travel within the validity period.
The Warri–Itakpe corridor has experienced multiple interruptions in recent months due to recurring technical faults. In 2025 alone, services were suspended on several occasions due to engine failures and operational challenges, while earlier incidents included derailments and other mechanical issues.
These repeated disruptions have raised concerns about the reliability of the line, even as the NRC continues efforts to stabilize operations and improve safety standards across the national rail network.
