In July 2024, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration, under the leadership of Nyesom Wike, initiated the building of three contemporary bus stations, marking an inaugural effort for the nation’s capital.
The proposal detailed three terminals for the initial stage: one located in the Kugbo region, another in the Mabushi neighborhood, and the last in the Central Business Area.
Although the Kugbo and Mabushi terminals were finished within a year and became operational in June, the terminal located in the Central Business District faced delays because of site-related problems and is now expected to be completed by the end of the year.
Nevertheless, locals have started voicing worries. Following the completion and inauguration of the two multimillion-naira terminals by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in June, they have stayed closed and not been utilized, with no bus or taxi services running.
As stated by the minister, the terminals were designed to improve the security of travelers and passengers, along with offering leisure amenities such as an integrated movie theater.
Wike highlighted that the terminals will combine and enhance FCT’s transport network.
“Although we have kept expanding our road network, unless we connect it with different bus stations, we will not reach our objectives. Our aim is to combine and enhance our transportation system. This will eliminate those so-called one-time offenses that constantly occur,” stated the minister.
He stated that the main objective of the initiative was to improve safety by decreasing the presence of unauthorized vehicles on the roads.
“We are working to remove the ‘single-opportunity’ risk where travelers are exposed to threats from unfamiliar drivers. Thanks to this terminal, passengers will be aware of both the drivers and the vehicles they’re entering, enhancing the safety of their trips,” he said.
Wike also tackled the problem of traffic jams and uncontrolled parking, issues that have persisted in the city for years, stating, “These facilities will offer a secure and structured area for cars to be parked, helping ease traffic on the streets.”
Expressing regret over the lack of this kind of facilities previously, he stated, “It is sad that a city like Abuja has never possessed a bus station. However, we appreciate God as our wishes have now come true.”
The FCT Authority stated that the terminals will be open around the clock, providing travelers with a secure and pleasant area for waiting. Our reporter, who has been following the project’s progress, notes that the terminals feature facilities like dining areas, washrooms, and recreational spaces.
Each of the two appointed terminals includes completely climate-controlled zones where travelers can relax with ease. These spaces also have an integrated movie system and internet connectivity. Moreover, there are specific spots designated for collecting tickets and checking out.
Nevertheless, although they possess remarkable characteristics, locals worry that even several months following their installation, the terminals still stand vacant and their transport issues persist.
What use are stations without bus services? – Locals
The bus stations in Abuja were constructed to enhance city mobility, yet several have been unused since they were finished.
Over a month since the inauguration, locals are expressing worries regarding the lack of functioning bus services. Without established routes, timetables, or personnel, several people are doubting the value of these stations.
A tour of the Kugbo and Mabushi terminals reveals that although the structures are contemporary and solidly constructed, they remain mostly vacant.
These stations, supported by taxpayer funds, have turned into tranquil areas without evidence of real transportation operations.
Inhabitants claim that these structures function more as symbols rather than effective answers to Abuja’s increasing transportation demands.
“It’s insufficient just to cut ribbons; we require buses on the streets. We need financial support for those with limited income. We also need qualified personnel, accurate schedules, and up-to-date information. If you claim to be advancing the city, make sure residents can experience it,” said Mr. Tunde Balogun, a businessman from Wuse.
People who commute every day from suburban areas into the central part of the city are experiencing stress.
Aisha Lawal, a government employee residing in Gwarimpa stated, “These kiosks are merely present—appearing nice yet vacant. There are no buses, no movement, no purpose. What exactly are we commemorating?”
Andrew Chukwuma, a transport operator traveling between Berger and Jabi, shared comparable concerns, stating, “The authorities are constructing terminal facilities, yet where are the buses? We’ve noticed the Kugbo and Mabushi terminals remain closed since they were opened in June. They claim these places are meant for the general population, but there’s absolutely nothing available for us. Travelers endure hardships, and we operators lack an effective structure to rely on.”
People living in regions like Kubwa, Kuje, Lugbe, Karu, and Nyanya still face extended waiting periods, crowded transport, and fluctuating costs.
Blessing Oche, a public official traveling from Lugbe, stated, “I spend hours waiting but still get crammed into packed buses. With no other options available, operators demand exorbitant fares. Simply constructing terminal facilities isn’t sufficient; the government needs to supply proper bus services as well.”
Travelers have also expressed worries regarding security.
An unnamed bank employee recounted a recent experience with a group of thieves, saying, “They stole everything — my phone, computer, and backpack. This is why we require a secure, state-backed transportation system.”
Madam Halima Hashir, who travels from Karu-Nyanya every day, mentioned that her transportation costs amount to N5,500 per day.
“What is my salary?” every day, as she passes the Kugbo terminal, which remains closed. “These terminals aren’t benefiting anyone; they’re just vacant structures while we face difficulties,” she expressed sorrowfully.
Due to the lack of an operational transportation network, numerous locals have no choice but to rely on unsafe and unofficial alternatives.
Outdated buses, delivery motorcycles, and various personal vehicles now dominate the streets, leading to hazardous commuting situations.
Mr. Ejike Hygenus, a former teacher from Kuje, remembered a more favorable period: “In the time of El-Rufai, we had well-maintained and lengthy buses commonly known as El-Rufai buses connecting the outskirts with the city center. They were affordable, dependable, and secure. These days, such services no longer exist—only structures labeled as stations,” he mentioned.
Specialists share their perspectives on future directions
Professionals discuss potential paths ahead
Experts provide insights into next steps
Authorities comment on possible trajectories
Experts offer opinions on what lies ahead
Scholars outline ways to proceed
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Experts present views on subsequent actions
Experts contribute ideas about the course of action
Former general manager of the Abuja Urban Mass Transit, Mr. Najeeb Mahmoud Abdul Salam, stated that the present circumstances require immediate changes.
He highlighted the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors, support from donors, better regulatory frameworks, and a renewed focus on strategic planning within the national transportation policy.
He further advocated for improved monitoring and control of the terminals to guarantee secure and efficient service provision.
A public policy specialist, Dr. Adetokunbo Margaret, cautioned that infrastructure not utilized properly could result in a lost opportunity for investment.
What is required at this moment is not additional terminals, but buses traveling on the streets, well-defined pathways, skilled operators, and an effective oversight framework.
She recommended that the private sector could manage it, but the government needed to establish and implement the regulations.
A mobility advisor, Mrs. Ifeoma Onuche, emphasized the importance of preparation and teamwork, stating, “These stations shouldn’t merely serve as symbolic initiatives. Where is the cooperation with private transportation providers? What is the transportation plan that dictates how these facilities should function?”
Numerous locals still experience everyday challenges on the roadways. Merchants, pupils, and employees encounter high costs, inconsistent transit options, and increasing security issues.
Trader Chukwuemeka Eze from Nyanya market stated plainly: “It’s similar to constructing hospitals without medical staff. What we require are buses today, not next year.”
Abdullahi Yusuf, who lives in Bwari stated, “With fuel costs still elevated and ride-hailing options being costly for many locals, unofficial transportation networks have stepped in to fill the void—but this comes with significant issues. Vehicles often break down, there are unsafe conditions, and incidents of regular harassment are common during commutes.”
Citizens are demanding swift action, such as the rapid introduction of bus services on heavily used routes, involvement of the private sector in managing terminals, implementation of electronic payment methods for fares, and stricter oversight. They believe that transport should be regarded as an essential community service, rather than merely a symbolic gesture.
As per Mathew Ijaodola, a local from Kubwa, without tangible actions being implemented, Abuja’s stations might stay well-constructed yet underutilized facilities, with the city’s inhabitants still trapped, awaiting not only bus services but also an effective transportation network.
Official from FCTA explains cause of postponement
A representative from the FCT Transport Secretariat, who requested not to be named, cited the procedure of granting terminal operations to private companies as the reason for the delay.
An official stated that the government had chosen for the terminals to be managed by a private organization instead of the transportation department.
He mentioned that the administration was in the midst of hiring a company to manage the terminals and pledged that once the procedure is finished, locals would begin to experience the effects.
The official had earlier stated that the terminals would not be managed by the FCT Transport Secretariat.
“We will entrust it to private companies that will manage it effectively,” the minister stated during the inauguration in June.
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