The Kaduna State Government, through the Kaduna State Transport Regulatory Authority, has intensified stakeholder engagement eff...
This formed the focus of a high-level meeting with His Highness, the Emir of Zazzau, Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli, held at his Emir’s Palace in Zaria.
The engagement is part of ongoing consultations aimed at gathering stakeholder input and strengthening collaboration to ensure the successful rollout of the state’s transport transformation agenda.
Leading the delegation, the Director General of KADSTRA, Engr. Inuwa Ibrahim, presented a comprehensive overview of the Kaduna Connect BRT Project.
He described the initiative as a strategic intervention designed to enhance urban mobility, boost economic productivity, and address persistent transportation challenges across Kaduna State.
The Director General noted that the project aligns with the transport reform agenda of the Kaduna State Government under the leadership of Governor Uba Sani, whose administration prioritizes inclusive, affordable, and well-regulated mobility systems.
He emphasized that the consultative approach reflects the government’s commitment to developing sustainable and people-centered transport solutions.
He further disclosed that the Kaduna Connect BRT is expected to be the first Bus Rapid Transit system in Northern Nigeria and the second in the country, positioning Kaduna as a major transport hub.
Engr. Inuwa Ibrahim highlighted the importance of traditional institutions in mobilizing grassroots support, noting that the success of the project depends significantly on community acceptance and participation.
He added that the project is being developed with the support of internationally recognized consultants under structured technical and project management frameworks.
In addition to the BRT system, the Director General outlined other proposed transport initiatives, including light rail corridors spanning approximately 30 kilometres from Maraban Rido to Rigachikum and 20 kilometres from Rigasa to Millennium City
. He also revealed plans for a monorail line from Gwargwaje through Kofar Doka to Shika town in Giwa Local Government Area.
In his remarks, the Emir of Zazzau commended the Kaduna State Government for its efforts to revitalize the transportation sector, particularly the introduction of subsidized transport services and infrastructure projects such as the Kakuri Bus Terminal.
The monarch reflected on Kaduna’s historical reputation for an efficient transport system and expressed optimism that the ongoing reforms would restore and surpass past standards.
He stressed the need for sustainable and inclusive transport systems that cater to the needs of the wider population.
While acknowledging the positive impact of the Kaduna Subsidized Transport Scheme (KSTS), the Emir emphasized the importance of sustaining the initiative to continue easing the burden on residents amid current economic realities.
He also called for stronger regulation of commercial transport operators to improve safety and reduce road accidents.
The Emir expressed strong support for rail-based transport systems, describing them as safe, efficient, and viable alternatives for urban mobility.
Responding to inquiries, the Director General explained that the expansion of the subsidized transport scheme to additional areas, including Zaria and Kafanchan, will depend on the availability of supporting infrastructure such as Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) refuelling facilities.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding access and sustaining impactful transport initiatives.
The Emir concluded by expressing confidence in the leadership of KADSTRA and urged the agency to uphold high standards of governance, institutional capacity building, and due process to ensure long-term sustainability.
The meeting ended with the presentation of the Kaduna Connect BRT Project document to the Emir for further review and a reaffirmation of mutual commitment to advancing Kaduna State’s transport modernization efforts.
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