Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has assured residents that the three newly constructed bus and taxi terminals in Abuja will begin operations once the Federal Executive Council (FEC) grants approval for their management contracts.
Wike gave the assurance on Thursday after inspecting ongoing road projects across the capital city.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the FCT Administration commenced construction of the terminals in Kugbo, Mabushi and the Central Business District (CBD) in 2024 as part of efforts to modernise Abuja’s transport system.
While the Kugbo and Mabushi terminals were completed and inaugurated in June 2025 to mark President Bola Tinubu’s second year in office, the CBD terminal is nearing completion.
However, the two completed facilities have yet to commence operations.
Awaiting FEC Nod
Explaining the delay, Wike said the terminals would be managed by competent private operators rather than the FCT Transport Secretariat, but their appointment requires FEC approval.
“After building the terminals, we said we are not going to allow the Transport Secretariat to run it. It will be handled by private individuals who have the competence,” he said.
According to him, the procurement process has already passed through the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), and the contracts are expected to be presented at the next FEC meeting.
“I am confident that in the next FEC, the contracts will be presented for approval. Once that is done, we will hit the road,” the minister added.
Boosting Urban Mobility
Wike noted that the terminals represent a major milestone in the FCTA’s plan to modernise transportation infrastructure and tackle indiscriminate roadside parking.
The facilities are designed to provide organised parking spaces, reduce traffic congestion and improve commuter safety.
Managing Director of Planet Project Ltd, Mr Biodun Otunola, said the Kugbo and Mabushi terminals are each designed to handle over 10,000 passengers daily and accommodate about 120 buses and taxis for intercity and intra-city travel.
The CBD terminal, he explained, is tailored mainly for intra-city operations.
Otunola added that each terminal would generate at least 100 jobs across security, ticketing, facility management, control rooms, electrical and mechanical services, maintenance, and bus operations.
“It’s very huge. It’s like running a mini airport,” he said.
More Terminals Planned
Wike had earlier disclosed plans to expand the initiative, with additional terminals proposed for Gwagwalada, Bwari and Kuje.
Otunola further estimated that the FCT would require at least 12 bus and taxi terminals to adequately serve key districts, including Gwarinpa, Lugbe, Area 1, Area 3, Garki and Wuse.
Once operational, the terminals are expected to significantly transform public transportation in the nation’s capital.