FG Targets 2027 Delivery as Kano–Maradi Rail Project Hits 60% Completion

The Federal Government has said the Kaduna–Kano–Jigawa–Katsina–Maradi railway project has reached 60 per cent completion, with delivery now projected for December 2027 under its infrastructure expansion drive.

An official of the Federal Ministry of Transportation, Engr. Ali Bukar, disclosed this during an inspection of the project site in Jigawa by members of the Presidential Media Team led by Sunday Dare.

Bukar, who is the resident engineer overseeing section two of the project, said construction is progressing steadily across the two main corridors, with intensified work ongoing along the Kano–Dutse stretch.

He explained that engineering activities are currently concentrated on bridge construction across major waterways and difficult terrains, with foundation works, including piling and substructure development, already at advanced stages, while superstructure installations are underway in several locations.

According to him, notable progress has also been recorded on the Kano–Jigawa axis, covering about 104 kilometres, alongside the branch line linking Kano to Dutse, where track laying, earthworks and key structural components are already in place.

The project, Bukar said, is being fully financed under the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Programme of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, aimed at strengthening connectivity and boosting economic activities across the northern corridor.

The inspection formed part of a broader tour of federal and state projects in the North-West, coordinated by the Renewed Hope Ambassadors under the leadership of Hope Uzodimma.

Beyond the rail project, the delegation also assessed key infrastructure initiatives in Kano State and Jigawa State, including a major interchange flyover in Tal-Udu, Gwale Local Government Area, and a concrete waterline project from Kapin Chiri Dam designed to support irrigation farming.

In Dutse, the team visited the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Skills Acquisition Centre and reviewed agricultural investments such as tractors procured by the state government.

The railway project, when completed, is expected to enhance regional trade, ease transportation and deepen cross-border economic integration between Nigeria and neighbouring Niger Republic, positioning the corridor as a critical link in West Africa’s transport network.