Photo Caption
(L-R) Chairman House of Representative Committee on the FCT, Hon. Muktar Betari, FCT Minister, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike and the FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud performing the symbolic ribbon cutting at the flag-off of the construction of the Central Business District Bus and Taxi terminal on Monday
By Ignatius Ushie
In continuation of the efforts to modernize transportation in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the Minister of the FCT, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, on Monday, flagged off the construction of a bus and taxi terminal in the Central Business District of Abuja.
According to a statement made available to Transport Day in Abuja, Wike while speaking during the flag off ceremony at the site of the proposed terminal, stressed the commitment of the FCT Administration to expanding transportation infrastructure in the FCT with the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Minister who stated that the provision of road infrastructure in the FCT will not be complete without linking them to the various bus and taxi terminals, added that the project will be constructed according to modern standards and will have facilities for relaxation, including restaurants.
The Minister recalled that the FCTA had earlier flagged off the construction of two bus terminals in Mabushi and Kugbo axis of the FCT and added that the provision of a bus terminal in the CBD will not only improve transportation but will also help to address security challenges in the FCT.
He said the management of the bus terminals will ensure that buses and taxi operators at the various terminals are clearly identified for security reasons, stressing that terminals will also help to curtail the menace of commercial cab robberies known as one chance robbery in the FCT.
According to him, “Before now, we have flagged off two bus terminals, one in Mabushi and one in Kugbo. This one is for the Central Business District, which is like the centre of the city.
“Some of us who have had the privilege of traveling overseas or traveling to other countries have come across these facilities. What comes to mind is why is it that we cannot also have the same facilities that we enjoy when we go outside the country? Abuja is a beautiful city. By the grace of God, through the support of Mr. President, we have continued to expand the road infrastructure, improve the efficiency of public transportation, reduce traffic congestion and provide a more comfortable and convenient travel experience for both residents and visitors”, he said.
The FCT Minister also thanked the National Assembly for its unwavering support to the FCT which he said has helped in the provision of infrastructure for the benefit of the people.
Earlier in her speech, the Minister of State FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, thanked the FCT Minister for his visionary leadership and guidance in the FCT, stressing that the Minister’s vision and commitment have been instrumental in bringing vital infrastructure projects to fruition in the FCT.
Dr. Mahmoud who also commended the FCT Transportation Secretariat for their pivotal role in ensuring the successful commencement of the bus and taxi terminals, said the project will significantly enhance the transportation network in the FCT when completed.
In his remarks, Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on FCT, Hon. Muktar Aliyu Betara also commended the FCT Minister for his efforts in modernizing transportation infrastructure in the FCT and pledged the continued support of the National Assembly to infrastructure development in the FCT.
Also speaking, the member representing the Abuja South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon Abdulrahman Ajiya, also commended the FCT Minister for the provision of infrastructure in the FCT, describing him as a working Minister.
Giving an overview of the project, the contractor, Engr. Biodun Otunola, stressed that the project will be iconic and befitting for a city like Abuja with modern facilities like elevators, CCTV, retail shops and ATM points among others and assured of quality and timely delivery of the project.
Highlight of the event was the symbolic cutting of the tape, which was performed by the FCT Minister, FCT Minister of State, Federal Lawmakers present, traditional chiefs of the FCT and other dignitaries.
