by Ola Williams-
KATSINA, Nigeria — The Katsina State Government on Thursday introduced a fleet of hybrid buses, marking a major step in Governor Dikko Umar Radda’s plan to modernize public transportation and promote eco-friendly mobility across the state.
The new vehicles, powered by a combination of electric motors and smaller internal combustion engines, are designed to cut fuel consumption and reduce emissions — a move officials say aligns with the state’s broader environmental goals.
In his speech, Project Manager of Zhong Tong Bus, Wei Yanbin, explained that the state government will initially procure 30 city buses for the first phase of the project.
According to him, the company will also construct three bus terminals and 60 bus stops along designated routes. “This project will commence this October and will be delivered within six months,” Yanbin said.
Each bus, he added, has a capacity to transport between 45 and 55 passengers.
The rollout follows Radda’s official visit to China last year, where he led a state delegation to explore partnerships with leading agricultural and industrial equipment manufacturers.
Oshi Benard, President of Ben 10 Equipment Company, one of the project’s key partners praised the governor’s leadership and vision.
“Governor Radda is hard-working, industrious, and deeply committed to sustainable development,” Benard said. “This project reflects his passion for improving the lives of ordinary citizens and empowering the youth of Katsina State.”
According to project officials, the first phase of the initiative will focus on major urban centers including Katsina, Daura, and Funtua, with expansion plans already under consideration.
“We want to especially thank Governor Dikko for giving us this great opportunity to promote a world-class project,” Benard added.
The hybrid buses, officials say, are part of a larger effort to position Katsina as a model for environmentally responsible governance in northern Nigeria.
