Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), in collaboration with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), has successfully foiled an attempt by suspected vandals to cart away railway track materials at the siding serving the Dangote Steel Rolling Mills in Osogbo, Osun State.
The incident occurred at a railway siding formerly serving the Osogbo Steel Rolling Mills, which is currently not operational, according to a statement issued on Sunday, August 30, 2026, by the NRC Chief Public Relations Officer, Callistus Unyimadu.
The Principal Track Officer (PTO), Osogbo, received a report on Friday, August 28, 2026, concerning the ongoing vandalisation of railway track materials at the location. Following the report, the PTO immediately proceeded to the site with security personnel, including officers of the NSCDC Railway Command. However, the suspected vandals reportedly fled the scene upon sighting the security operatives.
A subsequent search of the area led to the recovery of nine oxygen gas cylinders, which were allegedly brought to the site for use in the illegal operation. Security personnel have since secured the affected railway materials and the surrounding area.
Reacting to the development, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the NRC, Dr Kayode Opeifa, described the intervention as another significant success in the Corporation's sustained campaign to protect railway infrastructure from vandalism and other acts of economic sabotage.
Opeifa commended the security personnel for their vigilance and timely response, while urging security formations across the country's railway network to intensify surveillance and enforcement against the theft and vandalisation of railway assets. He stressed that railway infrastructure remains a critical national asset whose protection is essential to the safety of rail operations, the sustainability of railway services, and Nigeria's broader economic development.
The NRC boss reaffirmed the Corporation's commitment to strengthening collaboration with relevant security agencies in safeguarding railway infrastructure across the country. He appealed to members of the public, particularly communities located along railway corridors, to support the fight against vandalism by promptly reporting suspicious activities around railway tracks, stations, and other railway facilities.
Opeifa further directed security operatives to intensify efforts to identify, apprehend, and prosecute those responsible for the attempted vandalisation at the Dangote Steel Rolling Mills siding. He assured that the Corporation would continue to provide the necessary support to security agencies in the collective effort to stamp out vandalism and other criminal activities capable of undermining railway operations nationwide.
The NRC has repeatedly emphasised the need for greater protection of railway assets as the country continues efforts to expand and sustain its rail transport infrastructure.
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