Light Rail: Kano Delegation on Study Tour to Portugal
By Ahmad Tijjani Abdul
KANO — Officials of the Kano State Government have embarked on a study tour to Lisbon, Portugal as part of preparations for the proposed Kano Light Rail Project aimed at improving urban transportation in the state.
The delegation, led by the Commissioner for Transportation, Bar. Haruna Isa Dederi, is visiting major transport institutions to study modern rail systems and operational frameworks that could guide the planned project in Kano.
Officials said the visit includes engagements with leading transport and engineering firms such as Mota-Engil and MTS – Metro Transportes do Sul to gain insights into rail infrastructure development, maintenance, safety standards and sustainable financing models.
In a statement signed by the Information Officer of Kano Line, Ibrahim Ado Sabari, the study tour is designed to strengthen the state’s institutional capacity and ensure the proposed rail system meets global standards.
“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 project.
The Kano Light Rail Project is part of the broader transport development agenda of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf aimed at easing traffic congestion, improving mobility and supporting economic growth across the state.
Sabari also noted that the Federal Government of Nigeria, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has approved N1 trillion for the project as part of efforts to strengthen transportation infrastructure in the country.
When completed, the rail network is expected to connect major residential, commercial and industrial areas within Kano metropolis, while creating jobs and providing an environmentally friendly transport alternative for residents.