By Ben Adoga, Abuja
Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has described the commissioning of FCT bus terminals as a testament to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to the development of Nigeria.
Akpabio stated this on Tuesday while flagging off the Kugbo Bus Terminal on the Keffi-Abuja axis of the FCT.
The flag-off was the second in the series. Two more flag-offs are coming on Wednesday (today) and Thursday (tomorrow).
The Senate President stated, “The development of these bus terminals is more than just a construction project; it is a testament to the good works and commitment of President Bola Tinubu’s government to the progress and modernisation of Nigeria.”
Akpabio also said the project was “a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to enhance the infrastructure and public transportation system of the capital city of our beloved country.”
He noted that the “terminal will serve as a vital hub that will facilitate the efficient movement of people, reduce traffic congestion, and improve the overall quality of life for residents and visitors alike in the city.”
The terminal, Akpabio noted, is designed to be a state-of-the-art facility equipped with modern amenities to ensure comfort, safety, and convenience for all users.
He added that the facility would provide a structured and well-organised environment for the public transportation system to promote greater efficiency and reliability.
“This project aligns with a broader vision for Abuja as a model city, not just within Nigeria, but across the entire African continent. A well-organised public transportation system is the backbone of any thriving metropolis, and with these terminals, we are laying a solid foundation for sustainable urban development,” he said.
Akpabio lauded the FCT, Nyesom Wike, for the remarkable strides he made within one year in transforming the capital into a modern city with efficient infrastructure.
The Senate helmsman recalled the recent commissioning of several projects in the Federal Capital Territory by his administration.
The Senate president said the infrastructural development strides in the FCT would attract both investors and tourists, thereby making Abuja a prime destination for business, public service, and leisure.
He stated that the minister’s commitment to these developments had earned commendations from supporters and critics alike.
He also commended Wike for working tirelessly to bring Abuja back to the original plan conceived by previous leaders.
Akpabio appealed to the contractor to ensure the project was completed on time and to the highest quality standards.
“We must and should build a public transportation system that we can all be proud of,” he said.
In his remarks, Wike thanked the chairmen of the Senate and House Committee of FCT for their support through funding in the 2024 Appropriation Act.
According to him, “The terminal we are flagging off today is not only for those who can afford it, it is also for those who cannot afford it. When completed in the next 12 to 15 months, the safety of commuters will be highly guaranteed, because it would bring an end to the incessant cases of ‘One Chance,’ which has in the last few months led to the untimely death of unsuspecting residents in the FCT.”
He assured that the project would be completed and ready for use in a record time, as those who would be saddled with the running of the parks were already working and planning towards its take-off.
He said the project would be managed by partners from the private sector and will not be managed by the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW).
“We will ensure that whatever is obtainable in developed countries in the sectors would be done here to enhance patronage and confidence,” he said.
