Governor Uba Sani has reaffirmed Kaduna State’s status as an investment-friendly hub, pledging strong government backing for Dangote Peugeot Automobiles Nigeria Limited (DPAN) over its contributions to employment and economic development.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the management of the automobile firm, the governor said Kaduna remains one of Nigeria’s top-performing states on the ease of doing business index, making it attractive to both local and foreign investors.
He disclosed that the state government holds about 11.7 per cent equity in DPAN, stressing that this stake underscores its commitment to the company’s success.
According to him, the firm has already created about 1,000 direct jobs, with many more benefiting indirectly. “As a host community, Kaduna people are already gaining significantly from the company’s presence, and we will continue to support initiatives that deepen economic opportunities,” he said.
Sani added that the state’s investor-friendly climate continues to draw interest, noting that Kaduna ranks among the leading subnationals in Nigeria for ease of doing business.
On infrastructure, the governor highlighted ongoing investments in the transport sector, including the construction of what he described as the largest ultramodern bus terminal in the country.
He said one terminal has been completed, while another is nearing completion, adding that plans are underway to launch a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system—expected to be the second of its kind in Nigeria after Lagos.
He further revealed that Kaduna has attracted about $3.5 billion in investments, with $743 million already realised and $2.76 billion still in the pipeline.
Earlier, Managing Director of DPAN, Ibrahim Issa Gachi, called on the state government to prioritise locally assembled vehicles for official use and public service operations. He also urged the governor to champion the adoption of DPAN vehicles by other states and support partnerships in mass transit development.
Gachi disclosed that the company plans to expand its product range by introducing new brands, including Citroën, Fiat, and Leapmotor by 2027.
He explained that the expansion would cover a broad spectrum of mobility solutions—from passenger cars and SUVs to mass transit buses and micromobility options—powered by diverse technologies such as petrol, diesel, compressed natural gas (CNG), fully electric systems, and range-extended electric vehicles.
The DPAN chief also invited Governor Sani to formally unveil the company’s 2026 Peugeot models at its Kaduna facility within the next four weeks.
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