From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna
The Kaduna State Government has intensified stakeholder consultations on its planned Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, a transformative urban mobility project set to become the first dedicated BRT corridor in Northern Nigeria and only the second nationwide.
The project, named Kaduna Connect, will feature an initial 24-kilometer corridor from Kawo Bridge to NNPC Junction. Its first operational route will run from Gonin Gora to Rigachikun, passing through key areas like Refinery Junction. The aim is to reduce traffic congestion, enhance safety, and stimulate economic growth.
Significant updates came from a stakeholder workshop held on April 8, 2026, and a meeting with traditional rulers on April 16, 2026. During these events, Project Director Engr. Yamusa Bello Yamusa called the KBRT a historic milestone and highlighted the importance of involving traditional institutions.
Project Coordinator Engr. Usman Aliyu stated the system is meant to deliver reliable, modern transportation that supports urban development and integrates with current mobility networks.
Ted Regino, Team Lead of the Project Management and Operational Design (PMOD), emphasized that stakeholder input through consultation and feedback is crucial for making the system inclusive and community-responsive. Dr. Abdulkadir Jafar, Social and Community Specialist, added that ongoing engagement will help build trust and minimize disruptions during implementation.
The KBRT system will include about 30 purpose-built stations and a fleet of high-capacity buses operating across 10 routes to be rolled out in phases. It will incorporate global best practices, such as dedicated lanes, pedestrian safety features, accessible design for persons with disabilities, electronic payment systems, and intelligent transport systems.
Stakeholders praised the project’s focus on infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and integration with existing transport systems. Project teams assured all input would be considered as the design process advances.
With a strong commitment to transparency and inclusion, the Kaduna State Government and the BRT Project Management Unit stated that ongoing stakeholder engagement will be key to successfully delivering this transformative transit system.
Meanwhile, the state government has gained support from the Zazzau Emirate for the Kaduna Connect BRT project during a high-level meeting at the Emir’s palace in Zaria—the Director General of the Kaduna State Transport Regulatory Authority, KADSTRA, Engr. Inuwa Ibrahim presented the project as a strategic move to improve urban mobility, boost economic productivity, and resolve long-standing transport issues.
He noted that this consultation aligns with Governor Uba Sani’s broader reform agenda, which prioritizes inclusive, affordable, and well-regulated transportation across the state.
Beyond the BRT system, the state is also exploring complementary rail and monorail corridors. These include a 30-kilometer light rail from Maraban Rido to Rigachikun, a 20-kilometer line from Rigasa to Millennium City, and a monorail extending from Gwargwaje through Kofar Doka to Shika in Giwa LGA.
His Highness, the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Mal. Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli, CFR, praised the government’s efforts, including subsidized transport services and the Kakuri Bus Terminal. He recalled Kaduna’s historic transportation efficiency and expressed optimism that current reforms will restore and surpass past standards.
The Emir emphasized the importance of maintaining the Kaduna Subsidized Transport Scheme (KSTS), especially amid economic challenges, and called for stronger regulation of commercial operators to improve safety and reduce accidents. He strongly supported rail-based systems as safe and efficient alternatives.
In response to the Emir’s questions, Engr. Ibrahim explained that expanding subsidized transport to Zaria and Kafanchan depends on developing supporting infrastructure, such as CNG refueling stations. He reaffirmed the government’s pledge to expand access where possible.
The meeting concluded with KADSTRA presenting the BRT project overview document to the Emir for further review. Both parties renewed their commitment to the success of Kaduna’s transportation modernization efforts, highlighting the vital role of traditional institutions in gaining community support for major public initiatives.
