FCTA bus terminals to revolutionize transportation, boost security in Abuja

…create over 3,000 jobs for residents

By Ukpono Ukpong

With the imminent completion of the ongoing construction of three modern bus terminals by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), under the leadership of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, Abuja residents and transport operators alike are optimistic that by streamlining the city’s transport system, the initiative will not only improve mobility but will also contribute to the overall safety and organization of the territory.

Stakeholders, including transport operators, construction workers, and residents, have lauded the project, citing its potential to ease movement, create jobs, and curb criminal activities such as “one chance” robberies.

Speaking with Daily Times, the Project Manager for Planet Projects, Rasheed Soladoye, the firm handling the construction, revealed that work began in July 2024.

“We started with Mabushi on July 1, followed by Kugbo on July 2. The Central Area terminal was delayed for about two months due to site-related issues, but we are now on track,” he said.

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According to Soladoye, Mabushi is 92% complete, Kugbo stands at 85%, while the Central Area terminal is about 50% done.

He highlighted some of the challenges faced during construction, including a legal dispute over the initial Central Area site and the need to relocate underground facilities. However, he reassured the public that all three terminals would be ready soon.

“By May, the Central Area terminal will be commissioned, while Mabushi and Kugbo will be ready by the end of February,” he confirmed.

Beyond transportation, the terminals are designed to serve as commercial hubs with state-of-the-art facilities, even as he emphasized that the Central Area terminal, in particular, would be a landmark attraction in Abuja.

“Yes, there is a place for commercial activities, including event cinemas where people can come for relaxation,” Soladoye stated.

The construction of the terminals has also created significant employment opportunities for FCT residents.

“We have employed a whole lot of them. Over 3,000 people have worked with us at various stages, and many are still engaged,” Soladoye added.

Also speaking, workers on the project expressed appreciation for the employment opportunities provided.

A welder working on-site said, “I have received N100,000 for about a month of work. I really appreciate the minister’s efforts; this project has impacted my life positively.”

Similarly, Abigael Jatao, a cleaner at the Mabushi terminal, shared her experience. “Before, I was cleaning someone’s house on a daily basis, but now I work with a company. It has changed my life,” she said. Abigail Daniel, another worker, explained how she found employment at the site after her previous employer failed to fulfill a business promise. “I thank God they employed me here,” she said.

The project has also received praise from transport operators who believe the new terminals will improve orderliness and security in Abuja’s transport system.

Patrick Enyiako, the Financial Secretary of the Association of Luxury Bus Owners of Nigeria, Jabi, emphasized the impact on transportation costs.

“Maybe it may bring transport prices down. If the government can remove illegal street parks and move them to these new terminals, it will help many people,” he said.

Enyiako also highlighted the security benefits, explaining that organized parks would help curb crimes such as “one chance” robberies.

“Once you enter from the park, the authorities will have your details, unlike the roadside where criminals operate freely,” he said.

The Taskforce Chairman of the Association of Luxury Bus Owners of Nigeria, Edani Chienerie, echoed this sentiment, stating that the terminals would reduce illegal roadside loading.

“FCT isn’t supposed to have all these roadside pick-ups. With these parks, people can safely board their vehicles in designated areas,” he said.

He further explained how the terminals could introduce a ticketing system to regulate transport operations. “Maybe, with this model, they may be giving tickets, whether N200 or N500, so passengers will know their routes and destinations,” he said.

Chienerie also expressed optimism about the modernization of Abuja’s transportation infrastructure sayung, “We really appreciate the FCT Minister for reconstructing roads and putting the parks in order. We also want the Jabi Central Motor Park to be modernized,” he said.

As Abuja continues to grow, stakeholders believe these terminals will play a crucial role in making the city’s transport system more efficient.

“It’s a new model, and we are happy that the minister is taking this bold step. We hope that we in the transport sector will also have a role to play in managing these parks,” Chienerie added.