KADUNA-KANO, KANO-DAURA-KATSINA RAIL LINES ON TRACK FOR DECEMBER 2026 COMMISSIONING – ADEBIYI
The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Transportation, Engr. Funsho Adebiyi, has reaffirmed that the Kaduna–Kano and Kano–Daura–Katsina sections of the Kano–Maradi Railway Development Project remain on schedule for commissioning in December 2026.
Engr. Adebiyi gave the assurance during a project inspection by officials of the Debt Management Office (DMO), led by its Director-General, Patience Oniha, to assess progress on the Federal Government-funded railway project.
He described the pace and quality of construction as encouraging, noting that rail laying has commenced, while most construction materials8 have been delivered to project yards in Kazaure and Katsina
The Permanent Secretary added that rigorous quality assurance measures, including geotechnical investigations and laboratory testing of construction materials, are being carried out to ensure compliance with international engineering standards and global best practices.
Speaking on the level of completion, he disclosed that the overall project has attained between 70 and 75 per cent completion since it was awarded in 2021.
Engr Adebiyi further stated that the Kaduna–Zaria–Kano section is between 80 and 85 per cent complete and is currently undergoing finishing works.
He disclosed that successful test-runs have been conducted on the Kano–Maradi section.
According to a statement by Gift Seddon, the Ministry’s Assistant Director of Information and Public Relations, Engr Adebiyi noted that over 500,000 of the estimated 800,000 project components have been produced, while all the required rail tracks have been procured.
The Permanent Secretary added that the project has created employment for over 4,500 workers, including about 200 expatriates, and is facilitating technology transfer through the training of Nigerian engineers and technicians in specialised railway construction.
He identified the procurement of rolling stock as the next major milestone towards achieving the December 2026 commissioning target.
On challenges, Engr. Adebiyi cited vandalism of construction materials, land access issues in some urban areas, and illegal laterite mining along the Kano–Dutse corridor.
He also highlighted that the Ministry would strengthen collaboration with security agencies to protect project assets and continue engaging the Kano State Government and other relevant authorities to address illegal mining activities.
The Permanent Secretary also commended the support of traditional rulers and host communities, noting that sustained stakeholder engagement has improved access to project sites. He further disclosed that several communities have withdrawn court cases after recognising the project’s economic and social benefits.
Engr. Adebiyi reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment, under the Renewed Hope Agenda, to delivering modern railway infrastructure that will enhance connectivity, stimulate economic growth, and improve transportation across the country.
Speaking during the inspection, the Director-General of DMO, Patience Oniha, described the loan secured for the project as fully justified, noting that borrowing for critical capital infrastructure is consistent with the provisions of the Fiscal Responsibility Act.
She explained that the DMO, working with a consortium of financial institutions, arranged the financing because projects of such magnitude cannot be funded through annual budgetary allocations alone.
Oniha said the visit provided an opportunity to witness firsthand the impact of the financing, particularly in job creation, increased use of locally sourced materials, and the rapid pace of construction.
The Director General noted that the extensive use of locally produced construction materials is boosting domestic economic activity beyond the railway sector.
She reiterated the DMO’s commitment to supporting the financing of strategic infrastructure projects that advance the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and national economic development.
