Kano State Supports FGs Transport Agenda; Sends Delegates To Portugal to Study Rail Systems

As part of preparations for the proposed Kano Light Rail Project aimed at improving urban transportation in the state; Officials of the Kano State Government have embarked on a study tour to Lisbon, Portugal.

The delegation, led by the Commissioner for Transportation, Haruna Isa Dederi, is to engage with key transport institutions and rail operators to study modern rail systems and operational frameworks that could guide the development of the planned project in Kano.

The visit comes amid renewed momentum in Kano’s infrastructure drive following the recent defection of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf from the New Nigeria Peoples Party to the All Progressives Congress, a political shift analysts say could strengthen collaboration between the state and the federal government on major development projects.

During the tour, the Kano delegation is holding engagements with leading transport and engineering companies including Mota-Engil and MTS – Metro Transportes do Sul to gain insights into rail infrastructure development, maintenance systems, safety standards and sustainable financing models

In a statement signed by the Information Officer of Kano Line, Ibrahim Ado Sabari, the study tour is intended to strengthen the institutional capacity of the state ahead of the planned rail development.

“The delegation is engaging with relevant transport institutions to gain firsthand knowledge of rail infrastructure development, operations and maintenance systems,” Sabari said.

He added that the visit will also explore opportunities for technical partnerships and knowledge exchange that could support the long-term sustainability of the rail project.

The proposed Kano Light Rail forms part of Governor Yusuf’s broader transport reform agenda designed to reduce congestion, improve mobility and support economic activities across the commercial city.

According to Sabari, it was recalled that the Federal Government of Nigeria, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has approved about N1 trillion for the project as part of ongoing efforts to expand transportation infrastructure nationwide.

When completed, the rail network is expected to connect key residential, commercial and industrial areas across Kano metropolis, while creating jobs and providing a more efficient and environmentally friendly transport alternative for residents