By Shafi’u Yahaya
The Chief Executive Officer of AS and AJ Multi Services Company Limited, Abdulmalik Salisu, has reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting the Kano State Government in improving the operations of Keke Napep (tricycle) riders, particularly Adaidata Sahu drivers across the state.
Speaking with journalists, Abdulmalik disclosed that the company has entered into a strategic partnership with the state government to install tracking devices on all registered tricycles operating in Kano.
He explained that the initiative was approved by Abba Kabir Yusuf as part of broader efforts to modernize the transport system, enhance security, and ensure accountability within the sector.
According to him, the project is being implemented under the Kano Smart Transport Solution (KSTS) programme through the Ministry of Transport, with a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) already signed between the company and the state government.
Abdulmalik commended Governor Yusuf for what he described as visionary and compassionate leadership, noting that the governor’s intervention made the project affordable for tricycle operators.
He revealed that the state government introduced a 10 per cent subsidy for the first one million Adaidata Sahu drivers, reducing the cost of the tracking device from N28,500 to N25,500.
He described the subsidy as a people-oriented policy aimed at easing the financial burden on operators.
The CEO further explained that although the device currently sells for ₦28,500 locally, its market value exceeds ₦70,000, making the subsidized rate highly beneficial to drivers.
“The cost of installing each tracking device has been reduced to ₦28,500, which is equivalent to the price obtainable in China. This became possible because His Excellency settled the customs duties on the imported equipment,” he said.
He added that the governor also directed the company to operate on minimal profit margins to ensure affordability, given that many beneficiaries depend on the tricycle business for their daily livelihood.
“This policy clearly demonstrates the governor’s concern for petty traders and transport operators. It has also inspired us as a company to align our operations with principles of fairness, compassion, and service,” he added.
Abdulmalik emphasized that the deployment of the tracking devices would significantly enhance security, improve operational efficiency, reduce theft, and enable effective monitoring of tricycle activities across the state.
In a show of appreciation, the Chairman of Adaidata Sahu Drivers in Kano State, Alhaji Nazifi, alongside leaders from the 44 local government chapters, expressed gratitude to the governor for the initiative.
They offered prayers for the success of his administration and pledged their full support, noting that the programme would improve their working conditions, ensure safer operations, and contribute to the overall development of the transport sector in Kano State.
