Abuja | July 31, 2025 — The Federal Government has officially commenced plans for the construction of light rail transport systems across northern Nigeria, with initial focus on Kano and Kaduna States.
The Minister of Transportation, Senator Saidu Alkali, disclosed this on Wednesday during a press briefing in Abuja, stating that the move is part of the government’s broader commitment to revitalizing regional transportation infrastructure and boosting urban mobility across key northern cities.
According to the minister, feasibility studies and preliminary engineering works have been concluded, while budgetary provisions have been made to ensure early-stage implementation of the light train projects. He noted that Kano and Kaduna were selected to pioneer the initiative due to their growing populations, commercial significance, and pressing need for modern intra-city transportation.
“The light rail systems in Kano and Kaduna will provide fast, safe, and affordable transit for millions of Nigerians. They will also ease traffic congestion, reduce travel time, and create jobs across multiple sectors during and after construction,” Alkali stated.
The minister further explained that the rail initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly its emphasis on economic diversification, regional development, and improved public infrastructure.
He also revealed that funding for the light train project will be sourced through a mix of federal allocations, international development loans, and public-private partnerships to ensure sustainability and reduce government financial burden.
Local contractors and foreign firms with proven expertise in rail systems are expected to participate in the project, which is projected to span over four years from design to completion.
Stakeholders across the northern region have welcomed the development, hailing it as a timely response to the region’s transportation challenges and a major step toward fostering inclusive economic growth.
The light rail networks are expected to serve as models for similar projects in other northern cities including Jos, Bauchi, and Sokoto once the first phase is successfully delivered.
