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Terminals to operate 24 hours, will eliminate ‘one-chance’, enhance security in Abuja – Minister
By Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has lauded the newly constructed bus terminals in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), describing them as equipped with state-of-the-art facilities befitting a capital city like Abuja.
Represented by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, the President spoke at the inauguration of the Mabushi Bus Terminal—one of three such facilities in the FCT. While highlighting the terminals’ integrated commercial features, including relaxation areas, he expressed particular satisfaction with amenities such as cinema halls designed to help commuters unwind, alongside other essential services.
He commended FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for his vision, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence that brought the project to completion.
He applauded Wike’s commitment to delivering first-class infrastructure for Abuja, evident in both the quality and swift execution of the project.
Beyond the immediate advantages of organised transport and improved security, Tinubu noted the project’s potential as a catalyst for economic empowerment.
He stated, “With the completion of the Mabushi Bus Terminal and the Kugbo terminal, which I have been informed is also ready for commissioning, we are taking decisive steps to bring order, accountability, and safety to public transportation.”
“As we inaugurate the Mabushi Bus Terminal, we are not just opening a building; we are opening a new chapter for public transportation in Abuja. We are reaffirming our promise to provide a city where citizens can live, work, and commute with dignity, safety, and efficiency. This is a clear demonstration that our Renewed Hope Agenda is not merely a slogan, but a lived experience for our people.”
“I urge all residents and transporters to make full use of this facility, to cooperate with the authorities, and to embrace this new era of organised and secure public transit.”
Earlier, in his welcome address, Wike reiterated that the core purpose of the project is to enhance security by reducing unauthorised vehicles and easing road congestion.
According to him, “This terminal will not be operated by the FCT Transport Secretariat. Instead, we will concession it to private operators, who will run it efficiently.”
“The terminal will operate 24 hours a day, providing commuters with a safe and comfortable space to wait for their buses. There will be amenities such as food courts, restrooms, and entertainment facilities.”
Wike disclosed that the FCTA would also construct additional terminals in Wuye, Bwari, and elsewhere.
“We are constructing three bus terminals in the FCT. One is at the Mabushi terminal, one is at Kugbo, and one is at the Central Business Area. The one at Kugbo will also be commissioned next week.
“We plan to commission another terminal at the Central Business District before the end of the year. Additionally, we will construct new terminals in Wuye, Bwari, and Kuje this year,” he said.
According to him, the real essence of the project is to enhance security by reducing the number of unauthorised vehicles on the road.
“We are trying to eliminate the ‘one chance’ syndrome, where commuters are vulnerable to attacks by unknown drivers. With this terminal, commuters will know the drivers and the vehicles they are boarding, making their journeys safer.
“We are also addressing the issue of indiscriminate parking on the roads. This terminal will provide a safe and organised space for vehicles to park, reducing congestion on the roads.”
Wike also expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and the National Assembly for their support in realising the project.
Planet Projects, the contractors responsible for constructing the terminal and its sister facilities, created over 3,000 direct and indirect jobs for skilled artisans and general labourers, primarily from Abuja.