Kaduna State’s free Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) bus service has transported more than 1.4 million passengers across four major routes between July and November 2025, saving commuters over N1.39 billion in fares, according to new government data released.
Speaking at a press conference, Commissioner for Information Ahmed Maiyaki said the assessment was carried out to measure the real impact of Governor Uba Sani’s free-ride initiative.
“The numbers show a strong uptake that has far exceeded initial projections,” he said.
Maiyaki explained that the scheme, initially targeted at civil servants and students, was later expanded to all commuters on designated routes. “From July 7 to the end of November, the buses have moved an impressive number of our people at zero cost,” he stated.
According to the breakdown, 683,650 passengers used the service in Q3 2025, translating to N738.8 million in avoided transport costs. Ridership climbed further in October and November, with 626,710 passengers saving another N667.2 million, driven partly by school resumption.
“In total, Kaduna residents relying on these routes have saved N1.39 billion in just five months,” Maiyaki said, describing the scheme as a direct relief to household spending.
He noted that 30 CNG buses operate daily from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. across 200 bus stops in Kaduna, Zaria and Kafanchan. The routes include Tudun Wada–Kawo–Rigachikun; Rigachikun–Yakowa–Maraban Rido; Rigachikun–Kasuwa–Maraban Rido; and Rigasa–NEPA Roundabout.
Maiyaki added that the system lifts an average of 18,426 passengers daily and about 294,824 monthly, with each bus completing eight trips a day — an indication of “high demand and operational consistency.”
Beyond fare savings, he said the scheme is stimulating local economic activity, especially for small roadside traders. “Kaduna’s economy suffered when thousands of small operators were pushed out. This intervention is gradually restoring mobility and livelihoods,” he said.
Despite being free, Maiyaki argued that the service has proven financially viable and could even generate surplus revenue if fares are reinstated later. He stressed that government will “keep citizens’ welfare at the centre” while reviewing sustainability options.
He assured that the state remains committed to maintaining a safe, clean and reliable transport system, adding that updated ridership figures will be released soon as patronage continues to grow.
