Construction on the $1.96 billion Kano-Maradi rail project has resumed, despite challenges arising from the strained diplomatic ties between Nigeria and Niger.
The rail project, set to connect Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa states in Nigeria with Maradi in Niger, is progressing, with work already completed in some areas. However, it has been marred by unresolved compensation issues for thousands of displaced persons.
The project, initially approved by Nigeria’s Federal Executive Council in September 2020, is largely financed by the African Development Bank (AfDB) and is expected to be completed by 2026.
The railway line will pass through 122 communities in Nigeria and several in Niger, but thousands of people displaced by the project are yet to be fully compensated.
Of the estimated 19,284 displaced individuals, 16,032 have been compensated, but over 3,200 remain unpaid, with some expressing dissatisfaction with the amounts received.
Farmers from Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa states have voiced concerns about the compensation process, citing delays and inadequate payments.
Some have even accused the project’s contractors of underpaying them and mishandling the valuation of their assets.
Despite this, many residents remain optimistic about the project’s potential to bring economic benefits, particularly in terms of job creation and improved transportation.
The project’s completion is seen as a critical infrastructure development that will boost trade, facilitate transportation, and create new opportunities for the communities along its route.
However, the compensation disputes have raised concerns about the fair treatment of displaced individuals, with the final audit report recommending a review of the compensation process to align with AfDB policies.
As work continues, local leaders are hopeful that the project will deliver lasting benefits to their communities, though they also urge the authorities to address the compensation issues swiftly to ensure that affected individuals are justly compensated.
