The Katsina state government has embarked on a transport revolution with the launch of 200 electric tricycles and 30 CNG hybrid buses. The initiative, described as "From Energy Transition to Economic Transformation," aims to build a modern transportation ecosystem that creates jobs, supports businesses, and improves mobility. The launch was performed by Vice-President Kashim Shettima during his one-day official visit to the state.
The electric tricycles and CNG hybrid buses are expected to provide cleaner, more efficient, and affordable transportation for residents across the three senatorial districts. Governor Dikko Radda stated that the 200 electric tricycles are the first phase of a programme aimed at deploying 500 electric Keke EVs across the state. This initiative is expected to promote cleaner mobility and create opportunities for transport operators, young people, technicians, and businesses in the emerging electric mobility sector.
The 30 CNG hybrid buses will serve Katsina, Daura, and Funtua, with students, workers, traders, and other residents expected to benefit from the service. The government has established a main terminal and workshop in Katsina, alongside mini-terminal stations in Daura and Funtua, to support the operation and maintenance of the buses. Additionally, 40 modern bus stops are being provided across the three selected Local Government Areas, with facilities including Wi-Fi and solar inverter systems.
Governor Radda emphasized that effective public transportation requires not only vehicles but also functional terminals, maintenance facilities, passenger infrastructure, and reliable operational arrangements. He also disclosed that more than 240 kilometres of urban and rural roads had been covered through various infrastructure interventions across the state. This is part of the state's efforts to improve connectivity, ease traffic congestion, and reduce travel time.
Earlier, Vice-President Shettima commissioned 11.2 kilometres of major road projects in the Katsina metropolis. The commissioned roads comprised the dualised 4.80-kilometre Kofar Sauri-Central Mosque Roundabout Road, the 2.40-kilometre Central Police Station Junction-Kofar Kaura Underpass Road, and the newly constructed 4-kilometre Filin Polo-Ring Road. These projects are part of 12 major urban renewal projects being implemented in Katsina metropolis.
Governor Radda stated that similar interventions are being extended to Daura and Funtua to ensure that infrastructure development reaches the three senatorial zones. The state government's approach is to establish an integrated and interconnected road network rather than execute isolated projects. The investments aim to connect communities to markets, schools, and healthcare facilities, while creating better conditions for agriculture, commerce, and private-sector investment.
Governor Radda expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Government for supporting infrastructure development and economic growth in the state. The launch of the electric tricycles and CNG hybrid buses marks a significant milestone in Katsina state's efforts to modernize its public transportation system and promote sustainable development. The state government is committed to creating a modern transportation ecosystem that benefits residents and supports economic growth.
Key points
- The Katsina state government has launched 200 electric tricycles and 30 CNG hybrid buses as part of its transport revolution initiative.
- The initiative aims to promote cleaner mobility, create jobs, and support businesses in the state.
- The state government has also invested in infrastructure development, including roads, terminals, and bus stops, to support the new transportation system.
