Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has initiated plans to construct an intra-city rail network connecting Maiduguri and its environs, marking the first project of its kind in Northern Nigeria.
The project’s initial phase will include 12 terminals in Maiduguri, linking major markets, schools, public areas, and economic hubs. The rail system is designed to boost passenger and goods transportation, enhance economic activities, and create new development corridors across the state.
During a tour of proposed rail terminals and routes, Borno’s Commissioner for Transport and Energy, Aliyu Mohammed Bamanga, highlighted that feasibility studies, environmental risk assessments, and community consultations are ongoing to ensure the project’s success. The rail network aims to offer a cost-effective, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly alternative to current transportation options.
The rail project complements other infrastructure initiatives under Zulum’s administration, such as the expansion of Maiduguri’s 113-kilometer ring roads and the introduction of electric and gas-powered taxis and buses at subsidized rates. These efforts are part of the governor’s broader strategy to rebuild the state’s economy and restore stability after years of insurgency.
Governor Zulum’s vision underscores a commitment to modernizing Borno’s transport network while fostering sustainable development and job creation.