Kaduna Govt Partners French Development agency to improve urban transport

By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna

The Kaduna state Government through the newly established agency of transportation, Kaduna Bus Rapid transit have partners with French Development agency to implement and improve transportation sector in the state.

Addressing a Press conference at the secretariat of Nigerian Union of Journalists in Kaduna,Director General, Engineer lnuwa lbrahim  said, the Kaduna Bus Rapid Transit (KBRT) Project is a cornerstone of the Governor Uba Sani’s urban mobility agenda.which is designed to modernize public transportation, decongest city roads, and enhance the overall quality of life for our residents.

The Kaduna State Transport Regulatory Authority (KADSTRA), in partnership with the French Development Agency (AFD), is kickstarting the implementation of KBRT Project.

Engineer lnuwa lbrahim maintained that “AFD 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. As the financier of this project, AFD has provided crucial support to ensure its success.

He explained that Kaduna has faced transportation challenges, including congestion, unregulated commercial
transport operations, and inefficiencies that affect the movement of people and goods. Recognizing the need for a structured and sustainable urban transport system, the KBRT Project was conceived
to bring order, safety, and reliability to public transit.

“This 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.

“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.

“The Commitment to Urban Development realization of this project would not have been possible without the unwavering support and decisive leadership of His Excellency, Governor Uba Sani.

“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.

He also said “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 underscores the Governor’s vision for a modern, inclusive, and economically vibrant Kaduna, where infrastructure development is at the heart of sustainable growth.

“The Kaduna BRT 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. residents of Kaduna should expect to see visible progress,with the construction of transit corridors and the installation of necessary infrastructure.

“As the implementing agency, KADSTRA recognize the critical role of the media in providing the necessary visibility for the KBRT project. Your support in informing and engaging the public will ensure that residents and stakeholders are carried along throughout the implementation process.

“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. “We call on the public to support this project and embrace the new era of structured, modern, and efficient public transportation in Kaduna.