Kano-Katsina railway project reaches 80 per cent completion

The Nigerian federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to complete and commission the 284-kilometre Kano-Katsina railway project by December 2026. During a joint inspection involving the Federal Ministries of Transportation and Finance, officials reported that the project has reached 80 per cent physical completion.

Construction progress has faced several setbacks, including insecurity in certain sections of the corridor, land and canal disputes with local communities, and seasonal slowdowns due to the rainy season. Despite these challenges, officials stated that materials for track laying have been stockpiled and the government is intensifying engagement with affected communities to resolve land-use disputes.

The project is being financed through a combination of external loans and government counterpart funding, with the Federal Government having released its 15 per cent portion. The contractor, Mota-Engil Nigeria, is working toward the 2026 deadline, while efforts are also underway to ensure the necessary rolling stock arrives in time for the commissioning.