By Okafor Joseph Afam | January 8, 2025

The Nigerian government has obtained a $254.76 million loan from the China Development Bank (CDB) to support the construction of the 203-kilometer Kano-Kaduna railway project.

Project Overview

The railway, part of the larger Lagos–Kano railway modernization initiative, aims to establish a direct rail link between Kano and Abuja. Upon completion, the project is expected to provide residents with a safe, efficient, and reliable mode of transportation.

History and Progress

The Kano-Kaduna railway project was initially launched in July 2021 by former President Muhammadu Buhari in Kano State. It is being constructed by the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) and is included in the list of practical cooperation projects under the Third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation.

A statement from the China Development Bank highlighted the broader economic benefits:

“This railway will also promote the development of related industries along the route. The construction and operation of the project will create numerous job opportunities in Nigeria.”

Current Status and Future Plans

According to the CDB, the project is progressing smoothly. The bank pledged to work closely with the Nigerian government to ensure timely loan disbursements and effective management of subsequent phases.

Economic Impact

Beyond enhancing transportation infrastructure, the railway is expected to stimulate industrial growth along its route, create jobs, and strengthen ties between Nigeria and China under the Belt and Road Initiative.

The Kano-Kaduna railway represents a significant step toward modernizing Nigeria’s transportation network and boosting economic activities in the region. With the backing of the CDB and continued collaboration, the project is poised to become a transformative infrastructure development for the country.