The Federal Government of Nigeria has finalized plans to construct a light rail line in Kano metropolis, a transformative infrastructure project valued at N1.5 trillion (approximately $1 billion) according to Rep. Abubakar Kabir Abubakar, Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriation.
The announcement was made during a press briefing in Kano on Thursday, following a stakeholders’ meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC).Rep. Abubakar, who represents Bichi Federal Constituency, revealed that the Kano Metropolis Light Rail Project is currently in the procurement stage and is poised to significantly ease transportation challenges within the bustling commercial hub.
“For those who have traveled abroad, especially to Europe and Asia, they have seen such projects and understand their importance.
This project will immensely add value to the economy of Kano State when completed,” he stated, highlighting the potential for economic growth and improved urban mobility.
The light rail initiative is part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s broader infrastructure agenda, which Abubakar emphasized has not neglected the northern region, contrary to some speculations.
“As Chairman of the Appropriation Committee, I know firsthand what the President has done for the North,” he asserted, citing ongoing projects such as the Kaduna-Zaria-Kano rail, the Kano-Hadejia road, and the Kano northern bypass, which collectively underscore the administration’s commitment to northern development.
Addressing journalists, Rep. Abubakar dismissed claims of regional marginalisation, noting that the Tinubu administration has prioritized critical sectors including infrastructure, health, agriculture, education, and security across northern Nigeria.
I am the Chairman of Appropriation, and I know where we are appropriating money,” he said.
The light rail project is expected to decongest Kano’s roads, enhance connectivity within the metropolis, and boost economic activities in one of Nigeria’s most populous cities.
Abubakar also highlighted the strategic importance of the project, drawing parallels with modern transit systems in developed nations.
In addition to discussing the rail project, Abubakar noted that his visit to Kano included an APC stakeholders’ meeting aimed at strategizing for the 2027 general elections.
He praised Kano’s significant contribution to President Tinubu’s electoral success in 2023, delivering over 500,000 votes—the highest from any state.
The meeting also served to reaffirm support for Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, former APC National Chairman, for his leadership in strengthening the party’s presence in Kano and beyond.
