The Federal Government has announced that it has secured a total of N250 billion in funding to finance the development of light rail projects in Kaduna and Kano States.
This was disclosed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, during a press briefing in Abuja on Sunday.
According to him, the funding will be split between the two states, with N150 billion earmarked for the Kano Light Rail Project and N100 billion allocated to Kaduna.
Idris emphasized that the initiative reflects President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to ensuring balanced and inclusive development across the country.
“The President has been very clear: no part of Nigeria will be left behind in his development agenda. The approval and release of N250 billion for these critical transport projects in Kaduna and Kano are a demonstration of that resolve,” the Minister stated.
Idris also highlighted that the new rail projects will provide an efficient means of transportation for millions of residents, ease the burden of road congestion, and stimulate economic activities in the two states and beyond.
He further explained that the availability of funds was made possible by reforms introduced by the Tinubu administration, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy, which has created fiscal space and improved the financial capacity of both federal and state governments.
“Already, we are seeing the benefits of bold policy decisions. States now have higher monthly allocations, and the Federal Government has more resources to channel into legacy projects such as these,” he added.
The Minister assured Nigerians that the government is fully committed to delivering the projects within stipulated timelines, while prioritizing transparency, accountability, and value for money.
He urged citizens to continue supporting the administration’s efforts, stressing that investments in infrastructure such as rail transport will have long-term benefits for economic growth, job creation, and national integration.