Kaduna Free Bus Scheme Lifts 1.4 Million Passengers in 5 Months, Saves Citizens ₦1.39bn

Kaduna State Commissioner for Information, Malam Ahmed Maiyaki has said that the State’s free CNG bus service has transported over 1.4 million passengers across four major routes between July and November 2025.

According to him the free bus saved residents more than ₦1.39 billion in transport fares.

Presenting the figures, Maiyaki said the assessment measured the impact of the free-ride policy introduced by Governor Uba Sani.

Maiyaki explained that the scheme, initially for civil servants and students, was expanded to include all commuters along the designated routes. “From July 7 to the end of November, the buses have moved an impressive number of our people at zero cost,” he said.

“Data shows that from July to September, the buses transported 683,650 passengers, saving ₦738.8 million in fares. Between October and November, 626,710 passengers benefited, avoiding ₦667.2 million in transport costs. October alone accounted for 339,530 passengers due to school reopenings and increased intra-city travel”he explained.

He further added that the service operates across 200 bus stops in Kaduna, Zaria, and Kafanchan, with 30 CNG buses running daily from 7:00am to 6:00pm on routes including Tudun Wada–Kawo–Rigachikun, Rigachikun–Yakowa–Maraban Rido, Rigachikun–Kasuwa–Maraban Rido, and Rigasa–NEPA Roundabout.

“On average, 18,426 commuters ride daily, with each bus completing eight trips per day.”

Maiyaki highlighted additional economic benefits, noting that the scheme has boosted microeconomic activity, especially for small roadside traders displaced by previous urban policies.

“Kaduna’s economy suffered when thousands of small operators were pushed out. This intervention is gradually restoring mobility and livelihoods,” he said.

He also emphasized the governor’s concern for citizens’ welfare: “His Excellency is concerned about the well-being of everyone civil servants, students, market women and ordinary citizens who move daily to survive.”

He said despite being free, the scheme has demonstrated financial viability, with projections suggesting it could generate surplus revenue if fares are reintroduced. Maiyaki said the government will continue evaluating sustainability options while keeping citizens’ welfare at the center.

The Commissioner assured that the administration remains committed to safe, clean, and reliable public transportation, adding that updated ridership figures beyond November will be released in due course.

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