Barely 48 hours after joining the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has secured a major win for his state – a ₦1 trillion Metropolitan Rail Service approved by the Federal Government.
The project aims to transform urban transportation, reduce congestion, and stimulate economic growth in Kano’s metropolitan area.
The rail service will provide a modern, efficient, and affordable mass transit system, connecting key districts and improving resident mobility.
Speaking on Thursday at the 2025 National Qur’anic Recitation Competition in Borno State, Gov. Yusuf described the project as a landmark intervention, positioning Kano as a leading transportation hub in Northern Nigeria.
The governor assured residents of transparent execution and maximum benefits, collaborating closely with federal agencies to ensure the project’s success.
Yusuf expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for the initiative, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to supporting federal efforts.
The project is part of the Federal Government’s broader infrastructure drive, aiming to strengthen state-level infrastructure, ease urban mobility, and drive balanced regional development.
The Kano Metropolitan Rail Service is expected to attract investment, facilitate trade, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents.
According to Yusuf, his defection to the APC was driven by the need to foster unity, stability, and fast-track development across the state.
The approval of the rail project is seen as a significant achievement, demonstrating the benefits of alignment with the ruling party.
The Federal Government has secured ₦250 billion in funding for the Kano and Kaduna light rail projects, with ₦150 billion allocated to Kano.
The project is expected to create thousands of jobs, stimulate trade, and strengthen Kano’s position as a major commercial hub.
Other key projects in the pipeline include the Kaduna-Zaria-Kano road, the re-awarded Kaduna-Abuja highway, and the 200km Kano-Hadejia road.
These projects are part of the Federal Government’s efforts to improve infrastructure and drive economic growth in Northern Nigeria.
Persecondnews recalls that on January 26, the governor had resigned from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), blaming deepening internal crises and prolonged leadership disputes within the party for his exit.
According to him, his foremost priority remains the delivery of good governance and the dividends of democracy to Kano residents.
Several prominent APC figures were present at the event, including former national chairman of the party, Abdullahi Ganduje; Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin; and Kawu Sumaila.
Members of the Kano State Executive Council, party stakeholders and other government officials also attended.
Yusuf’s defection comes just hours after 21 members of the Kano State House of Assembly also moved from the NNPP to the APC.
Reacting, the former National Chairman of APC, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje said the party has resolved to grant automatic to Gov. Yusuf.
Ganduje announced this during the governor’s formal defection to the APC at the Kano State Government house.

Leave a comment