May 4, 2026
Zaria, Kaduna State – April 20, 2026
The Kaduna State Government, through the Kaduna State Transport Regulatory Authority (KADSTRA), has continued its high-level stakeholder engagements with traditional institutions, meeting with His Highness, the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Mal. Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli, CFR, on the proposed Kaduna Connect Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Project and broader urban transport reforms.
The meeting, held at the Zazzau Emir’s Palace in Zaria, formed part of ongoing consultations aimed at securing stakeholder input and fostering collaboration for the successful implementation of the state’s transport transformation agenda.
Leading the delegation, the Director General of KADSTRA, Engr. Inuwa Ibrahim, FCIoTA, presented an overview of the Kaduna Connect BRT Project, describing it as a strategic initiative designed to improve urban mobility, enhance economic productivity, and address transportation challenges across Kaduna State.
The engagement forms part of the broader transport reform agenda of the Kaduna State Government under the leadership of His Excellency, Governor Sen. Mal. Uba Sani, FCIoTA, whose administration has placed strong emphasis on inclusive, affordable, and well-regulated urban mobility. The ongoing stakeholder consultations on the Kaduna Connect BRT reflect the government’s deliberate and consultative approach to developing sustainable transport solutions for the state.
He further noted that the project is expected to be the first Bus Rapid Transit system in Northern Nigeria and the second in the country, underscoring its significance in positioning Kaduna as a leading transport hub.
The Director General emphasised the importance of the Emirate’s support, acknowledging the critical role of traditional institutions in mobilising community acceptance and ensuring the success of public sector initiatives. He further highlighted that the project is being developed with the support of internationally recognised consultants under structured project management and technical frameworks.
In addition to the BRT system, the Director General outlined complementary transport initiatives being considered by the state government under the leadership of Sen. Mal. Uba Sani. These include proposed light rail corridors spanning approximately 30 kilometres from Maraban Rido to Rigachikum and 20 kilometres from Rigasa to Millennium City, as well as a planned monorail system extending from Gwargwaje through Kofar Doka to Shika town in Giwa LGA.
In his remarks, His Highness, the Emir of Zazzau, expressed appreciation for the engagement and commended the Kaduna State Government for its efforts in improving the transportation sector, including the introduction of subsidised transport services and the development of modern transport infrastructure such as the Kakuri Bus Terminal.
The Emir reflected on the historical efficiency of Kaduna’s transport system and expressed optimism that the current reforms would restore and surpass previous standards. He also underscored the importance of sustainable and inclusive transport systems that benefit the wider population.
While acknowledging the positive impact of the Kaduna Subsidised Transport Scheme (KSTS), the Emir emphasised the need for its sustainability to ensure continued relief for residents, particularly in light of prevailing economic challenges.
He further advocated for stronger regulation of commercial transport operators to reduce accidents and improve safety standards across the state. The Emir also expressed strong support for rail-based transport systems, describing them as safe and efficient alternatives for urban mobility.
Responding to inquiries, the Director General clarified that the expansion of the subsidised transport scheme to additional locations, including Zaria and Kafanchan, is dependent on the availability of supporting infrastructure such as 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 encouraged the agency to maintain high standards of governance, institutional capacity building, and adherence to due process to ensure long-term sustainability.
The meeting concluded with the presentation of the Kaduna Connect BRT Project overview document to the Emir for further review, followed by a reaffirmation of mutual commitment to the success of Kaduna State’s transport modernisation efforts.
For further enquiries, please contact:
Kaduna State Transport Regulatory Authority (KADSTRA) Email: admin@brt.kd.gov.ng