Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has disclosed that operations at the newly constructed bus and taxi terminals in the territory have been put on hold, pending approval from the Federal Executive Council (FEC).
Wike disclosed this on Thursday after inspecting ongoing road projects across Abuja, explaining that while the facilities are largely completed, they cannot commence operations until FEC approves the engagement of private operators.
The FCT Administration (FCTA) began construction of three terminals in 2024, located in Kugbo, Mabushi and the Central Business District (CBD).
The Kugbo and Mabushi terminals were completed and inaugurated in June 2025 as part of activities marking President Bola Tinubu’s second year in office. The CBD terminal is currently at the final stage of completion.
Despite their inauguration, the completed terminals have yet to begin operations.
According to the minister, the delay stems from the requirement that the selected operators must receive FEC clearance, as the contract exceeds ministerial approval thresholds. He added that the procurement process has already secured clearance from the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP).
Wike explained that the FCTA opted for a private-sector-driven management model rather than allowing the Transport Secretariat to operate the facilities.
“After building the terminals, we decided they would not be run by the Transport Secretariat. They will be managed by competent private operators,” he said.
He expressed optimism that the contracts would be presented at the next FEC meeting for consideration and approval, after which operations would commence.
Beyond improving urban mobility, Wike noted that the terminals represent a key component of the FCTA’s broader transport modernisation strategy.
He added that the initiative is also aimed at curbing indiscriminate parking and easing congestion on major roads by providing organised and secure loading points.
Biodun Otunola, managing director and chief executive officer of Planet Project Ltd, said the Kugbo and Mabushi terminals are each designed to handle more than 10,000 passengers daily and accommodate up to 120 buses and taxis for intercity and intra-city transport.
He explained that the CBD terminal differs in design, as it is primarily configured for intra-city operations.
Otunola also highlighted the employment potential of the project, stating that each terminal is expected to create at least 100 direct jobs across security, ticketing, facility management, control room operations, electrical and mechanical services, maintenance and transport coordination.
Describing the scale of operations, he likened each facility to “running a mini airport.”
He further noted that assessments indicate the FCT would require no fewer than 12 terminals to adequately serve key districts, including Gwagwalada, Kuje, Gwarinpa, Lugbe, Area 1, Area 3, Garki, Wuse and other strategic locations across the territory.
