From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has announced plans by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to build new bus terminals in Bwari and Gwagwalada Area Councils to enhance transportation in the FCT.
Rabi Umar, Assistant Director of Press, reported that Wike made this disclosure on Saturday, May 17, during an inspection of renovation works at the International Conference Centre (ICC) and road upgrades in Ushafa, War College, and Army Checkpoint in Bwari Area Council.
Wike stated that the new terminals in the satellite towns will complement existing city centre facilities to improve residents’ mobility. He emphasised their role in addressing the “one chance” car robbery issue.
“We have agreed that we are going to establish one bus terminal in Gwagwalada and one in Bwari. This will ensure that people can safely and securely travel from Bwari and Gwagwalada to various parts of the city, including Mabushi, Kugbo, and the Central Business District bus terminal. By providing these designated terminals, we aim to eliminate the problem of ‘one chance’ and ensure the safety of commuters,” Wike said.
The minister underscored President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to bridging infrastructure gaps in the FCT, noting that the Renewed Hope Agenda prioritises satellite towns. He cited the 12-kilometre Ushafa road project and the dualisation of the Kuje-Gwagwalada road as evidence.
“The government of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu is particularly concerned about and paying attention to the satellite towns,” Wike affirmed.
Wike also highlighted the ICC upgrade as part of Tinubu’s directive to deliver world-class facilities. He explained that improved infrastructure would reduce travel times from satellite towns, encouraging residents to live there and easing city centre congestion.
Additionally, he noted that providing amenities in satellite towns would curb rural-to-urban migration driven by inadequate rural infrastructure. “It will be a different thing, and people will no longer be compelled to live in the cities,” he said.