From Edirin Robinson, in Kaduna
Recognizing the need for a structured and sustainable urban transport system, the Kaduna State Transport Regulatory Authority (KADSTRA), in partnership with the French Development Agency (AFD), is set to launch the Kaduna Bus Rapid Transport Project to bring order, safety, and reliability to public transit.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Director General of KADSTRA, Engr. Inuwa Ibrahim and made available to the media in Kaduna on Friday.
The DG explained that the project, a cornerstone of the Governor Uba Sani’s urban mobility agenda, is designed to modernize public transportation, decongest city roads, and enhance the overall quality of life for our residents.
Engr. Inuwa recalled that for years, Kaduna has faced transportation challenges, including congestion, unregulated commercial transport operations, and inefficiencies that affect the movement of people and goods.
He, however, stated that the transformative project will introduce a 24-km dedicated transit corridor from Kawo Bridge to Sabon Tasha, with well-structured bus stations and shelters strategically placed along the route.
“More than just an infrastructural development, KBRT represents a shift towards a modern, efficient, and environmentally friendly transportation system that will enhance mobility, stimulate economic growth, and create job opportunities for Kaduna residents.”
Engr. Inuwa disclosed that, implementing the project would not have been possible without the unwavering support and decisive leadership of Governor Uba Sani, adding that, after years of planning and delays, the KBRT project faced the risk of further postponement.
“However, His Excellency intervened with bold financial commitments to ensure its actualization. In 2023, Governor Uba Sani directed the release of N97 million as counterpart funding, a crucial move that revived the implementation of the project.
“Understanding the strategic importance of a well-functioning transport system, he further allocated N699 million in the 2024 budget to accelerate the execution of KBRT. In the 2025 budget, Governor Uba Sani has made a budgetary provision of N30 billion, with N5 billion set aside as part of the counterpart funding, reinforcing the commitment of his administration to seeing the project through to completion.”
This commitment, according to him, underscores the Governor’s vision for a modern, inclusive, and economically vibrant Kaduna, where infrastructure development is at the heart of sustainable growth.
Emphasizing the need for support, He noted that, AFD as the project financiers, plays a significant role globally in supporting sustainable development projects such as the KBRT, reinforcing its commitment to fostering urban growth, economic stability, and climate-friendly transportation systems worldwide.
The DG further explained that, the KBRT project, when fully completed, will provide: Safer and more reliable transport, decongestion of Kaduna urban center, reduction of travel time, improved road safety and environmental sustainability.
“The Kaduna Bus Rapid Transit (KBRT) Project is more than just a transport initiative: it is a game-changer for the economy of Kaduna state and urban development. Through the commitment of His Excellency, Governor Uba Sani, and the dedication of all stakeholders, we are on track to transform the way Kaduna moves.
“Moving forward, residents of Kaduna should expect to see visible progress, with the construction of transit corridors and the installation of necessary infrastructure. We call on the public to support this project and embrace the new era of structured, modern, and efficient public transportation in Kaduna.”
