By Ayomide Otitoju
The China Development Bank (CDB) has approved a €245 million ($254.76 million) loan to support the construction of the Kano-Kaduna railway project in Nigeria, the bank announced on Tuesday.
In a statement, the CDB highlighted its commitment to ensuring the smooth progress of the project, which aims to enhance Nigeria’s transportation infrastructure.
The Kano-Kaduna railway spans 203 kilometers and features a standard-gauge design. Once completed, the railway will provide direct rail connectivity between Kano and Abuja, significantly improving travel and logistics in the region.
“This railway will also promote the development of related industries along the route. The construction and operation of the project will create numerous job opportunities in Nigeria,” the statement noted.
The railway project is among the practical cooperation initiatives included in the Third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation, underscoring its strategic importance to China’s global infrastructure development agenda.
The construction is being executed by the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), with financing provided by the CDB.
The bank affirmed its commitment to working closely with Nigerian authorities to ensure timely disbursement of funds and effective management of the project’s completion.
This development is expected to bolster Nigeria’s economic growth, enhance regional connectivity, and align with the broader objectives of the Belt and Road Initiative.
