Kaduna State’s free Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) bus scheme has conveyed more than 1.4 million passengers and saved the residents an estimated N1.39 billion in transport fares between July and November 2025, the state government said on Thursday.

Speaking at a media briefing in Kaduna, the commissioner for information, Ahmed Maiyaki, said the assessment was conducted to measure the impact of the free-ride initiative introduced by Governor Uba Sani. He said the data showed strong uptake that exceeded initial projections.

Mr Maiyaki explained that the scheme, which began as a targeted intervention for civil servants and students, was later expanded to accommodate all commuters along designated routes.

“From July 7 to the end of November, the buses have conveyed an impressive number of our people at zero cost,” he said.

According to him, 683,650 passengers used the service in the third quarter of 2025, covering July, August and September. The estimated fare value of the trips was N738.8 million.

The commissioner said ridership rose further in October and November, with 626,710 passengers recorded during the two months, representing an avoided fare cost of N667.2 million. October alone accounted for 339,530 passengers due to the reopening of schools and increased intra-city movement.

“In total, Kaduna residents had saved N1.39 billion in just five months,” he said, adding that the figures reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to easing economic hardship.

Mr Maiyaki said the buses operate across 200 bus stops in Kaduna, Zaria and Kafanchan, with 30 CNG buses running daily from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The routes include Tudun Wada, Kawo, Rigachikun, Rigachikun, Yakowa, Maraban Rido, Rigachikun, Kasuwa, Maraban Rido, Rigasa and NEPA Roundabout.

He said the scheme lifts an average of 18,426 passengers daily, or about 294,824 passengers monthly, adding that each bus runs eight trips per day.

Mr Maiyaki said the benefits of the scheme extend beyond free transport, adding that it had supported microeconomic activity, particularly among small traders who were affected by previous urban policies.

He said the governor introduced the scheme to cushion the effects of the prevailing national economic challenges on residents.

The commissioner further said that despite offering free rides, the scheme has demonstrated strong financial viability, with projections showing it could generate surplus revenue if fares are restored in the future.

He added that the government would continue to examine sustainability options while prioritising citizens’ welfare.

Mr Maiyaki said updated ridership data beyond November would be released subsequently as the service continues to witness high patronage.

(NAN)