Kaduna Partners French Agency to Boost Urban Transport

By Abdullahi Alhassan Kaduna 

The Kaduna State Government has partnered with the French Development Agency (AFD) to implement the Kaduna Bus Rapid Transit (KBRT) Project, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at modernizing public transportation in the state. According to Engineer Inuwa Ibrahim, Director General of the Kaduna State Transport Regulatory Authority (KADSTRA), the project is a cornerstone of Governor Uba Sani's urban mobility agenda.

"The KBRT Project is designed to modernize public transportation, decongest city roads, and enhance the overall quality of life for our residents," Ibrahim said during a press conference at the Nigerian Union of Journalists secretariat in Kaduna. "AFD plays a significant role globally in supporting sustainable development projects, and their commitment to fostering urban growth, economic stability, and climate-friendly transportation systems is unparalleled."

Ibrahim explained that Kaduna has faced significant transportation challenges, including congestion, unregulated commercial transport operations, and inefficiencies affecting the movement of people and goods. The KBRT Project aims to address these issues by introducing a 24-km dedicated transit corridor from Kawo Bridge to Sabon Tasha, complete with well-structured bus stations and shelters.

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

The project has received significant funding commitments from Governor Uba Sani, including N97 million in counterpart funding in 2023, N699 million in the 2024 budget, and N30 billion in the 2025 budget, with N5 billion set aside for counterpart funding. The AFD has also provided crucial support to ensure the project's success.

As the implementing agency, KADSTRA recognizes the critical role of the media in providing necessary visibility for the KBRT project. The agency urged the public to support the project, which is expected to provide safer and more reliable transport, decongest the urban center, reduce travel time, and improve road safety and environmental sustainability.