In continuation of the efforts to modernise transportation in the Federal Capital Territory, (FCT), Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, on Monday flagged off the construction of a bus and taxi terminal in the Central Business District of Abuja.
The development, he vowed, will curb insecurity in Abuja.
Speaking during the flag off ceremony at the site of the proposed terminal, Wike stressed the commitment of the FCT Administration to expanding transportation infrastructure in the FCT with the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Minister, who stated that the provision of road infrastructure in the FCT will not be complete without linking them to the various bus and taxi terminals, also said the project will be constructed according to modern standards and will have facilities for relaxation, including restaurants.
The Minister recalled that the FCTA had earlier flagged off the construction of two bus terminals in Mabushi and Kugbo axis of the FCT and added that the provision of a bus terminal in the CBD will not only improve transportation but will also help to address one chance menace.
He said the management of the bus terminals will ensure that buses and taxi operators at the various terminals are clearly identified for security reasons.
He said: “Before now, we have flagged off two bus terminals, one in Mabushi and one in Kugbo. This one is for the Central Business District, which is like the centre of the city.
“Some of us who have had the privilege of traveling overseas or traveling to other countries have come across these facilities. What comes to mind is why is it that we cannot also have the same facilities that we enjoy when we go outside the country?
“Abuja is a beautiful city. By the grace of God, through the support of Mr. President, we have continued to expand the road infrastructure, improve the efficiency of public transportation, reduce traffic congestion and provide a more comfortable and convenient travel experience for both residents and visitors.
“What we are trying to do is to integrate and improve our transport system. It is going to cut off this so-called “one chance” that is always committed here.
“The management of these bus and taxi terminals will know that these are the vehicles that go to so and so place and these are the vehicles you have boarded. For security reasons, we will be able to identify them, unlike where you will go and stand on the road, you don’t know who is plying the vehicle.
“Part of what we are doing today is establishing a bus and taxi terminal that you can go and say that I am going to Gwagwalada and we are aware. If anything happens, this is the vehicle and this is the driver that will be held responsible”.
Wike who also described the construction of the terminals as a practical demonstration of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu, assured that the project will be adequately funded to ensure its timely completion.
The FCT Minister also thanked the National Assembly for its unwavering support to the FCT which he said has helped in the provision of infrastructure for the benefit of the people.
The Minister of State FCT, Mariya Mahmoud, thanked the FCT Minister for his visionary leadership and guidance in the FCT, stressing that the Minister’s vision and commitment have been instrumental in bringing vital infrastructure projects to fruition in the FCT.
Mahmoud, who also commended the FCT Transportation Secretariat for their pivotal role in ensuring the successful commencement of the bus and taxi terminals, said the project will significantly enhance the transportation network in the FCT when completed.
She said the project will serve as a testament to the city’s growth and the commitment of the FCT Administration to improving public services and called for the continued support of FCT residents and other stakeholders.
In his remarks, Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on FCT, Hon. Muktar Aliyu Betara also commended the FCT Minister for his efforts in modernizing transportation infrastructure in the FCT and pledged the continued support of the National Assembly to infrastructure development in the FCT.
Also speaking, the member representing the Abuja South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon Abdulrahman Ajiya, also commended the FCT Minister for the provision of infrastructure in the FCT, describing him as a working Minister.
Hon. Ajiya further commended the strategic location of the bus terminal in the city centre and assured of the continued support of the House of Representatives for the FCTA.
In his welcome address, the Mandate Secretary, FCT Transport Secretariat, Chinedum Elechi said the bus terminals when completed, will significantly reduce congestion on the road, leading to faster travel time in the FCT.
Giving an overview of the project, the contractor, Engr. Biodun Otunola, stressed that the project will be iconic and befitting for a city like Abuja with modern facilities like elevators, CCTV, retail shops and ATM points among others and assured of quality and timely delivery of the project.
Highlight of the event was the symbolic cutting of the tape, which was performed by the FCT Minister, FCT Minister of State, Federal Lawmakers present, traditional chiefs of the FCT and other dignitaries.
