Kaduna Unveils N30bn BRT Project To Cut Emissions, Create 14,000 Jobs

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has announced a ₦30 billion counterpart funding for the Kaduna Bus Rapid Transit (KBRT) system, in partnership with the Agence Française de Développement (AFD).

Speaking at the National Transport Conference, Sani said the 24-kilometre BRT corridor will run from Rigachikun to Sabon Tasha, with 120 compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered articulated buses. The initiative, he said, is the first of its kind in northern Nigeria and the second in the country after Lagos.

The project aims to reduce carbon emissions by 38 percent and save commuters ₦1.8 billion annually in fuel costs. It is also expected to create 3,200 direct and 11,000 indirect jobs across various sectors including transport operations, ICT, security, and small-scale trade.

Sani also revealed that work on the Kaduna light rail project is progressing, with Phase 1 set to restore the old rail gauge between Rigachikun and Sabon Tasha, while Phase 2 will link Millennium City to the Abuja-Kaduna rail line.

To ease the impact of fuel subsidy removal, the governor said the state launched a subsidized transport scheme offering free rides for students, workers, and retirees. Since its inception in July 2025, the scheme has saved commuters over ₦500 million.

He added that over 200 bus stops are being constructed across the state to improve safety and efficiency, with more phases planned for broader coverage.