FG Targets December 2026 for Kano-Katsina Railway Completion

The federal government has set a new completion target for the 284-kilometre Kano-Katsina railway project, aiming for commissioning by December 2026. This assurance was made during a joint inspection involving officials from the Federal Ministry of Transportation, Federal Ministry of Finance, lending institutions, and the project contractor.

The project is currently 80% physically complete, with test runs conducted on the completed track from Kazure to Katsina. Engr Habibat Buhari, representing the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transportation, acknowledged setbacks due to the rainy season but emphasized significant progress.

Key challenges include insecurity in certain areas and land disputes, which have temporarily slowed construction. However, she assured that these issues would not halt the project.

The government is engaging with affected communities to resolve disputes, and efforts are underway to ensure timely arrival of the necessary rolling stock. Alhaji Muhammadu Kamal from the Federal Ministry of Finance confirmed that the government has released 15% of counterpart funding, demonstrating commitment to the project.