By Omeiza Ajayi
In a major leap toward urban transport reform and citizen safety, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday commissioned Abuja’s first-ever public bus terminal, declaring it a bold step to eliminate chaos, crime, and joblessness in Nigeria’s capital city.
Represented by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr. Tajudeen Abbas, the President inaugurated the ultramodern terminal located in Mabushi, describing it as a “transformational milestone” that aligns with his Renewed Hope Agenda.
“This terminal is more than a transit point; it is a declaration of our resolve to restore order, protect lives, and drive prosperity in Abuja,” Tinubu said. “Gone are the days of informal pick-up points that expose commuters to the menace of ‘one-chance’ operators. We are putting an end to that era.”
The President announced that similar terminals in Kugbo and the Central Business District would follow, with Kugbo’s ready for commissioning next week.
The Mabushi terminal, one of three built by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), is designed to operate 24 hours a day, providing a secure and comfortable space for passengers.
Facilities include restrooms, food courts, relaxation lounges, cinema halls, and other commercial services.
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, who hosted the event, said the terminals are a long-overdue solution to Abuja’s transport woes.
He emphasized that the infrastructure would drastically reduce crime and traffic congestion by regulating the flow of vehicles and eliminating roadside pickups.
“This is about security and sanity. With these terminals, Abuja commuters can identify their drivers and vehicles before boarding. We’re phasing out the lawlessness on our roads,” Wike said.
He added that the FCT Transport Secretariat will not run the terminals directly but will concession them to private operators to ensure efficiency, profitability, and sustainability.
The construction of the terminals reportedly created over 3,000 direct and indirect jobs, from artisans to service vendors, providing economic relief for many residents.
Wike also revealed plans to build new terminals in Wuye, Bwari, and Kuje, stressing that by the end of the year, the Central Business District terminal would be fully operational.
Citizens and stakeholders have hailed the move as a long-awaited turning point in urban planning and public transport reform in the capital.
