Abuja: The Minister of Transportation, Mr. Said Alkali, has praised the efforts of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, for the construction of three new bus and taxi terminals in Abuja. Alkali expressed his commendation during the inauguration event of the Mabushi Bus and Taxi Terminal, a project completed under the leadership of the Wike-led Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Alkali described the project as a significant achievement and assured continued collaboration with the ministry to maintain these efforts. He highlighted that this initiative would enhance public transport and stimulate economic activities in the territory. The minister emphasized that the terminals would support the realization of President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes transportation.
Alkali encouraged stakeholders, particularly road transport union leaders, to fully utilize the terminal's potential, as effective use could motivate the government to further improve the welfare of citizens and dignify road users and transport operators. He also disclosed that President Tinubu has sanctioned the development of six additional bus terminals, one in each geopolitical zone of the country, citing strategic locations like Abeokuta, Onitsha, Warri, Lokoja, Gombe, and Kano for their commercial viability and economic growth potential.
The minister commended Tinubu for his multifaceted support in advancing the transport sector, stating that such investment by the Federal Government in the transport infrastructure is unprecedented. He acknowledged Tinubu's leadership in prioritizing transportation as a key economic growth enabler and a gateway to the nation's economy.
Mr. Wike, on his part, announced the FCT Administration's plans to inaugurate the Kugbo terminal next week and the Central Business Area terminal by the end of 2025. He also revealed plans for three more terminals in Gwagwalada, Bwari, and Kuje this year, aimed at enhancing security and reducing road congestion.
Earlier, Mr. Chinedum Elechi, the Mandate Secretary of the Transportation Secretariat, FCT Administration, noted that the Mabushi terminal is the first of its kind in the territory, designed to operate 24 hours and accommodate both intercity and intracity transportation. The terminal, completed in 10 months despite an initial 15-month timeline, features facilities like an escalator, ticketing booths, and CCTV cameras to ensure security.