Kaduna State is taking a big step toward transforming public transport, as Governor Uba Sani met with the Minister of Transportation, Senator Sa’idu Ahmed Alkali, in Abuja on Wednesday to advance plans for the Kaduna Light Rail Project.

This crucial meeting held at the Federal Ministry of Transportation headquarters comes shortly after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu confirmed that the Kaduna Light Rail has been captured in the 2025 federal budget. The President, during a recent official visit to Kaduna, announced that the Federal Government has allocated N100 billion for the ambitious rail project, underscoring his administration’s drive to modernise mass transit across Nigeria.

Governor Sani described the light rail as a potential “game changer” for Kaduna State. According to him, once completed, the project will not only ease the daily movement of millions of residents but also create jobs, boost local commerce, and link rural communities more seamlessly with urban centres.

“This is a transformative initiative by our administration. It will position Kaduna as a top transportation hub in Nigeria,” Sani said. He added that the project is expected to cut down travel time, open up new economic corridors, and offer residents a safe, reliable, and affordable way to get around the state.

In response, Minister Alkali praised Governor Sani for his “people-focused approach to governance.” He assured that the Federal Ministry of Transportation is fully committed to working hand-in-hand with Kaduna State to deliver the project on schedule. “This aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which is all about modern infrastructure and inclusive development. We are determined to see this project through,” the Minister stressed.

The Kaduna Light Rail is among the major transport initiatives highlighted in the 2025 national budget, reflecting President Tinubu’s promise to support state governments in driving infrastructure that can diversify Nigeria’s economy.

Residents and business owners across Kaduna have expressed excitement over the fresh push for the light rail, hoping it will dramatically change how people commute and attract new investments to the state once it becomes a reality.