Kaduna State is set for a major transformation in public transportation as Gov. Uba Sani kick-starts the long-awaited Kaduna Bus Rapid Transit (KBRT) project.

The initiative aims to decongest city roads and improve urban mobility, marking a significant step toward modernising transportation in the state.

Speaking at a media briefing in Kaduna on Friday, the Director- General of the Kaduna State Transport Regulatory Authority (KADSTRA), Inuwa Ibrahim, highlighted the project’s impact on mobility, economic growth, and sustainability.

He noted that Kaduna residents have long faced transportation challenges, including congestion, unregulated commercial transport, and inefficiencies in movement.

According to him, the KBRT project will address these issues by introducing a 24-kilometre dedicated transit corridor from Kawo Bridge to Sabon Tasha.

He stated. “The corridor will feature strategically placed bus stations and shelters, offering residents safer, more reliable, and efficient transport options.”

He added that the KBRT was expected to stimulate economic growth and create jobs while promoting a cleaner and more organised transport system.

He said, “Governor Uba Sani’s administration has shown strong commitment to actualising the KBRT project. In spite of initial delays, he revived the initiative by approving N97 million as counterpart funding in 2023. This was followed by a substantial allocation of N699 million in the 2024 budget to fast-track implementation.’’ 

He further disclosed that the 2025 budget állocated N30 billion for the project, with N5 billion designated as additional counterpart funding.

Mr Ibrahim noted that financial commitment underscored the governor’s vision for a well-structured and sustainable urban transport system.

He stated, “KADSTRA is working with the French Development Agency (AFD) to implement the KBRT project. AFD, known for financing sustainable development initiatives globally, is playing a key role in ensuring the project’s success.’’ 

According to Mr Ibrahim, once completed, the KBRT will provide more efficient transport services, reduce congestion, and improve road safety and environmental sustainability.

To mark the project’s official launch, Mr Ibrahim noted that the governor would perform the groundbreaking ceremony of the KBRT’s Southern Terminal on March 11 at the Kaduna Line depot.

 “The KBRT project is more than just a transport initiative—it is a game changer for Kaduna’s economy and urban development. Residents are urged to support and embrace this new era of structured, modern, and efficient public transportation. With the governor’s dedication and stakeholders’ collaboration, Kaduna is on track to revolutionise its transport system, setting a model for other states to follow,” Mr Ibrahim said.

(NAN)