Federal Government Approves ₦1 Trillion Kano Metropolitan Rail Project

The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially granted approval for the development of a ₦1 trillion Metropolitan Rail Service in Kano State, marking one of the most significant urban transport investments in the state’s history. The large-scale infrastructure initiative is projected to modernize public transportation, reduce urban pressure, and stimulate long-term economic activity across the Kano metropolis.

The approval was made public by Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, on Wednesday during his address to members of the Kano delegation who represented the state at the 2025 National Qur’anic Recitation Competition hosted in Borno State. The announcement drew attention to the Federal Government’s renewed commitment to supporting large transport projects in key urban centers.

Details of the disclosure were later confirmed in an official statement released on the same day. The statement was signed by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, who outlined the significance of the project and its expected impact on residents of the state.

According to Governor Yusuf, the proposed metropolitan rail system is intended to deliver a modern, reliable, and cost-effective mass transit solution for Kano. The rail network will connect major districts within the metropolitan area, improve daily movement, and significantly reduce persistent traffic congestion that has long affected productivity and commuter safety.

The governor further explained that the project reflects his administration’s recent political alignment with the Federal Government under the All Progressives Congress (APC). He stated that the realignment was driven by a strategic need to position Kano State to attract essential development-focused interventions capable of accelerating growth and improving public welfare.

Describing the initiative as a landmark transport intervention, Governor Yusuf emphasized that the Kano Metropolitan Rail Service would enhance living standards, improve access to economic opportunities, and strengthen the city’s role as a strategic commercial and logistics center in northern Nigeria.

He assured residents that the Kano State Government would collaborate closely with relevant federal ministries, departments, and agencies to guarantee efficient project execution, transparency throughout implementation, and optimal value for citizens. The administration, he said, remains focused on ensuring the rail service delivers measurable benefits across social and economic sectors.

Governor Yusuf also conveyed appreciation to the Federal Government for approving the rail project, reiterating his administration’s readiness to support federal development programs through enabling policies, complementary infrastructure planning, and sustained intergovernmental cooperation aimed at long-term progress in Kano State.