Borno to build north’s first metro rail network
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has unveiled plans to build an intra-city rail network linking Maiduguri with its surrounding areas.
Once completed, it will be the first such project by any of Nigeria’s 19 northern states.
During an inspection of the proposed rail terminals and routes, Borno State’s Commissioner for Transport and Energy, Aliyu Mohammed Bamanga, revealed that feasibility studies, environmental risk assessments, and community consultations are underway to ensure the successful implementation of the project.
Aliyu Mohammed Bamanga explained that the rail project, with the potential for future expansion to cover local government areas, is designed to improve passenger and goods transportation while driving economic growth and development across Borno State. “The project will simplify transportation, boost the economy, create jobs, and transform the city’s transport network,” Bamanga said.
The first phase will include 12 terminals within Maiduguri, strategically connecting major markets, schools, public spaces, and key economic areas. “This innovative rail system will offer a cost-effective, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly transportation option for residents,” he added.
Bamanga further noted that the project complements ongoing infrastructure efforts, such as the 113-kilometre expansion of the Maiduguri East, West, and South ring roads, which will link Auno, Molai, Polo, and Shagari low-cost communities.
Governor Zulum’s administration has also introduced electric and gas-powered taxis and buses at subsidized rates to ease transportation costs and mitigate the impact of the fuel subsidy removal.
Proofreading by Uchechi Ojo, Sub-editor at NeptunePrime.
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