Kaduna Rolls Out Free Bus Service for Civil Servants, Students, and Retirees: A Bold Step Towards Inclusive Mobility

In a landmark move to ease the transportation burden on residents, Governor Uba Sani has launched a free bus service for civil servants, students, and retirees across Kaduna State. This initiative, flagged off under the Kaduna Subsidised Transport Scheme (KSTS), began operations on Monday, July 7, with promises to make commuting more affordable, accessible, and dignified for key population groups.

The announcement was made by Engr. Inuwa Ibrahim, Director-General of the Kaduna State Transport Regulatory Authority (KADSTRA), who confirmed that beneficiaries would enjoy six months of free transportation — a first-of-its-kind gesture in the state’s recent history.

Kaduna Rolls Out Free Bus Service for Civil Servants, Students, and Retirees: A Bold Step Towards Inclusive Mobility

Who Benefits from the Free Transport Program?

• Civil Servants (upon presentation of a valid staff ID and NIN)

• Students in public and private schools from primary to tertiary levels (must wear complete uniforms)

• Retirees

• Recognised security agency personnel (upon proper ID verification)

This free service will run across selected routes with strict measures in place to ensure order, security, and efficient delivery.

What’s Next After Six Months?

After the initial phase, KADSTRA revealed that the general public will benefit from a 60% transport fare subsidy, ensuring that Kaduna’s entire population can access affordable mobility long-term.

“This isn’t just a transport policy. It’s a social investment strategy that empowers our workforce, protects vulnerable populations, and strengthens access to education,” said Engr. Ibrahim.

Kaduna Rolls Out Free Bus Service for Civil Servants, Students, and Retirees: A Bold Step Towards Inclusive Mobility

Backed by Cleaner Energy Vision

The program follows the June 19 commissioning of 100 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses by President Bola Tinubu during his visit to Murtala Mohammed Square, Kaduna. The CNG-powered buses are part of a green mobility initiative aimed at reducing emissions while cutting fuel costs.

Education Meets Accessibility

One of the program’s standout features is its inclusive reach to students in private schools, signaling the state’s intention to bridge transportation gaps across socioeconomic classes. This decision sets Kaduna apart as a model for people-first governance, where even students in fee-paying schools receive support.

“This initiative is a strong indicator of Governor Uba Sani’s dedication to people-centered leadership — putting public welfare before politics,” remarked a civil society transport analyst.

Entry Guidelines

To maintain transparency and prevent abuse, the following rules apply:

• Civil servants must show both a staff ID card and National Identification Number (NIN)

• Students must be in complete school uniforms

• Security personnel must present valid agency ID

A Model for State-Led Transportation Reform?

Kaduna’s transport relief plan arrives at a critical time when fuel subsidy removal, inflation, and unemployment continue to strain everyday Nigerians. This effort not only addresses mobility inequality, but it also opens the door to replicable policies in other states.

Written by Boom RadioNG