FG To Begin Kaduna Light Rail Construction In July

The Federal Government is set to commence construction of the Kaduna Light Rail project next month, following the completion of key preparatory processes and technical assessments.

This was disclosed after a meeting between officials of the Federal Ministry of Transportation and the Kaduna State Government, led by Governor Uba Sani, according to a report by AIT News on Saturday.

The Kaduna Light Rail project is one of three federally approved urban rail systems planned for Kaduna, Kano and Lagos as part of efforts to improve mass transit infrastructure across the country.

Officials said all necessary arrangements had been concluded to enable contractors mobilise to site within the next month, signalling the transition of the project from the planning stage to full implementation.

Governor Uba Sani described the project as a transformative initiative that aligns with the state’s vision of developing an efficient and integrated transportation network to address growing urban mobility challenges.

Speaking during the engagement, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Transportation, Engr. Olufunsho Adebiyi, said technical assessments of the proposed rail corridors had been completed. He noted that current efforts are focused on addressing potential obstructions, refining route alignments and resolving issues that could affect project execution.

According to project details, the rail system will consist of two major corridors. The Red Line will run from Rigachikun to Sabon Tasha, passing through key commercial districts, while the Yellow Line will connect Millennium City to Rigasa Railway Station, linking residential communities with a major transportation hub.

The development follows the recent approval by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) of about $2.99 billion for rail projects in Lagos, Kano and Kaduna.

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, said the approval covers the Lagos Green Line, Kano Metro Rail and Kaduna Light Rail projects, which are included in the Federal Government’s 2025 and 2026 capital expenditure plans.

The projects are to be financed through the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) under a public-private partnership framework aimed at expanding urban transportation infrastructure and improving mobility in key economic centres.

The Federal Government had earlier announced plans to support light rail projects in Kaduna and Kano, while funding commitments for both projects were unveiled in 2025 as part of broader efforts to modernise public transportation and stimulate economic growth.