FCT to roll out branded buses, cars for terminal operations — Wike

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, says new buses and cars for the take-off of Abuja’s bus terminals will arrive soon, paving the way for full operations at the Mabushi, Kugbo, and nearly completed Central Business District (CBD) terminals.

During an inspection of the CBD terminal on Saturday, Wike said the FCT Administration is partnering with private companies to supply buses and taxis, all painted in Abuja’s official colours.

He added that the government will launch the system with its own fleet to ensure safety and curb the “one chance” menace.

“We’ll start operations with government vehicles painted in Abuja colours. This will help eliminate one chance because commuters can easily identify official vehicles,” he said.

Wike praised the quality of work at the CBD terminal, noting that it stands out from the recently commissioned Mabushi and Kugbo terminals.

He said the contractor aims to complete it by year-end, when the newly procured vehicles are also expected to arrive.

The Minister also inspected the 15km Pai–Gomani road in Kwali Area Council, expressing dissatisfaction with the slow progress.

He criticised the contractor for delays and unauthorized cost variations nearly equal to the original contract sum.

“There are variation issues I’m not comfortable with. Those who acted without proper approval will be sanctioned,” he said, noting that any such variation requires presidential approval, Bureau of Public Procurement clearance, and Federal Executive Council authorization.

Despite setbacks, Wike expressed confidence that the contractor handling the Gomani–Yangoji section will complete the work ahead of President Bola Tinubu’s third anniversary.

He reaffirmed the FCT Administration’s commitment to rural development under the Renewed Hope Agenda, highlighting ongoing projects such as the newly re-awarded Apo–Karshi road and the Kubwa–Bwari road.

“This is the first time satellite towns are receiving real priority,” he added.