By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Katsina
Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has inaugurated the groundbreaking of the Safe Space Energy project, designed to strengthen the State’s transport system, accelerate its clean energy transition, and expand economic opportunities for young people.
Governor Radda said the event marked a major leap toward a greener and more resilient future for the State.
According to him, the project has positioned Katsina as one of the emerging hubs for renewable and alternative energy in Northern Nigeria.
Governor Radda thanked the management and investors of Safe Space Energy Limited for choosing Katsina State as the home of this transformative investment. He commended the company’s strong commitment to the project and assured them of the government’s full support to ensure its successful implementation.
The Governor explained that the project will play a central role in strengthening the local economy, creating employment for young people, and modernising the State’s transportation sector. He noted that the government has already introduced new buses, many of which are electric or hybrid, as part of its ongoing reforms, adding that Katsina is also planning to adopt electric vehicles for official use.
He stated that the services and technology being deployed by Safe Space Energy will significantly complement and reinforce these efforts, helping the State build a cleaner, safer, and more efficient transport system.
Governor Radda further emphasized that the investment aligns with Katsina’s Climate Change Initiative and long-term commitment to environmental sustainability. He stressed that the project contributes directly to the State’s vision of building a cleaner, greener, and more climate-resilient future. He once again assured the investors of the government’s unwavering support throughout the project’s execution.
Earlier, Economic Adviser Khalil Nura Khalil said the groundbreaking of the Safe Space Energy project reflects the tremendous progress being achieved under the Radda administration in the power and energy sector. He noted that no economy can grow without reliable power, making the effort particularly significant.
He explained that the project connects directly to the State’s Green New Project and highlighted that the Jibia axis of Katsina is fast becoming an energy hub, unlike anything seen in the North. He commended Governor Radda for his dedication, describing his work, both in the State and nationally, as impressive and impactful.
In his remarks, Managing Director of Safe Space Energy, Nazir Abdullahi Alhassan, welcomed Governor Radda and reaffirmed that energy remains fundamental to development. He said the company selected Katsina due to its supportive business environment, strategic location, and reputation as a peaceful and hospitable State.
He stressed that Safe Space Energy is not just an investor but a partner in Katsina’s progress. He announced that the company will establish a CNG mother station, a CNG daughter station, and an electric vehicle (EV) charging facility equipped with 100 charging points already on order.
He further revealed that 50 CNG-hybrid vehicles have been ordered for Katsina, capable of traveling long distances after charging, including to Kano, Kaduna, and Abuja. The company already operates a CNG plant and EV charging station in Abuja, located at its Mabushi headquarters.
The Chairman added that Katsina’s strategic border routes, including Niger Republic and Jibia, make it an ideal location for CNG refueling, especially for trucks heading into Niger or southern Nigeria.
He also announced the introduction of KKNP (Keke NAPEP) CNG conversion kits and electric tricycles, with 100 units currently being tested in Kano and 50 units set for deployment in Katsina. He explained that the electric KKNPs charge in 40 minutes, travel about 100km per charge, and cost less than ₦1,000 to power, reducing transport costs for urban commuters.
He highlighted the safety of CNG technology, noting the use of armoured and fibre-2 cylinders, and confirmed that 50 hybrid vehicles will be brought to Katsina under the first deployment.
The Chairman stated that the project is expected to be completed before the first quarter of 2026. He added that the company will also establish a service center, conversion hub, and training academy in Katsina, in partnership with the Motor Development Commission, to train young people and support long-term operations.
Those in attendance included the Commissioner for Commerce and Tourism, Hon. Yusuf Suleiman Jirdede; the Director General of KATDICT, Naufal Ahmed; Economic Adviser, Khalil Nura Khalil; and other senior government officials.
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