The Federal Government has concluded plans to construct a ₦1.5 trillion light rail line in the Kano metropolis to address the city’s transportation challenges. The Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriation, Rep. Abubakar Kabir Bichi, confirmed the development, stating that the project, valued at $1 billion, is currently in the procurement stage.
“The project will immensely add value to the economy of the state when completed,” Bichi said, highlighting the importance of such infrastructure projects seen in Europe and Asia.
Addressing Political Allegations
During his address, Bichi dismissed claims that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has neglected the North, calling the suggestions “unfounded.” As the Chairman of Appropriation, Bichi stated he is well aware of the President’s actions in the region.
He listed several major ongoing and completed infrastructure projects across the North as evidence of the government’s commitment:
Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Road Project: Nearing completion.
Kaduna-Abuja Road (400km): The contract was revoked and re-awarded, with the new contractor making significant progress. Completion is expected by the end of the first quarter of next year.
Kano-Hadejia Road (200km): Fully completed.
Kano Northern Bypass: An ongoing project costing over ₦250 billion.
Bichi clarified that his presence in Kano was for an All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders’ meeting to strategize for the 2027 general elections and express solidarity with former APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje. He noted that Kano delivered over 500,000 votes to the President in the last election, the highest from any state, and that the meeting was a way to plan ahead.
