Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani has received commendation from a United Nations award recipient, humanitarian organisations, civil society groups, religious leaders, and traditional titleholders for launching a free Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) mass transit bus scheme.
This scheme is aimed at alleviating transportation challenges and reducing travel costs for residents.
Leading the accolades was a Clergy, Yohanna Buru, the 2022 United Nations World International Interfaith Harmony Week award winner and National President of the Peace Revival and Reconciliation Foundation of Nigeria.
Buru, accompanied by a delegation representing various peacebuilding and community groups, paid a courtesy visit to the Kaduna State Ministry of Information to extend appreciation on behalf of their organisations.
Describing the initiative as “timely and people-centered,” Buru emphasised its significance amid the current economic difficulties facing many Nigerians.
Survey Report
Civil society groups involved in peace and conflict prevention reported that surveys among regular users of the free buses showed overwhelming satisfaction, with commuters highlighting substantial savings on transportation and easier access to workplaces, markets, and educational institutions.
Buru noted that Kaduna’s free mass transit service is a pioneering initiative in the state, offering relief to civil servants, traders, and low-income earners struggling with escalating travel expenses.
He affirmed that the scheme underscores Governor Sani’s dedication to improving citizens’ welfare.
The delegation also delivered New Year goodwill messages to the Commissioner for Information, Ahmed Maiyaki, the Ministry of Information, and other officials of the Kaduna State Government.
Traditional leader, Ibrahim Gambo, who also serves as an Ambassador on Gender-Based Violence, lauded the government’s move.
He remarked that the free bus scheme has had a positive impact on residents by easing commuting burdens and lowering costs.
He conveyed prayers for the government’s continued success and expressed gratitude on behalf of the people.
One student interviewed shared that the free bus service had notably improved morale and school attendance by removing transportation costs as a barrier to education.
Residents praised the professionalism of the bus drivers and conductors, highlighting their courteous conduct, adherence to safety protocols, and responsible driving.
Many noted the service has helped reduce traffic congestion and delays on key routes, thereby enhancing daily commuting experiences, especially for low-income residents.
In response, Commissioner Ahmed Maiyaki thanked the visitors for their support and valuable feedback.
He disclosed that following a successful review of the scheme’s performance between July and November 2025, Governor Uba Sani has approved the indefinite continuation of the Free CNG Mass Transit Scheme.
Operating with 100 CNG-powered buses across 200 designated stops, the scheme transported over 1.4 million passengers within five months, saving Kaduna households approximately ₦1.39 billion in transport costs.
“These figures go beyond statistics. They represent school fees paid, meals provided, small businesses surviving, and thousands of citizens moving daily without the heavy burden of transport expenses,” Maiyaki said.
Currently serving more than 18,000 residents daily, the scheme stands as one of Kaduna State’s most impactful social interventions.
Maiyaki stated that after observing its success and hearing testimonies from commuters during field assessments, Governor Sani directed that the service continue indefinitely.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to expanding safe, affordable, and environmentally friendly transportation options as part of its broader human capital development agenda.
He also commended Yohanna Buru for his ongoing efforts in fostering peace, unity, and interfaith harmony throughout Kaduna State.