Big news coming out of Abuja! The construction of new bus and taxi terminals, spearheaded by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, is not only revamping the city’s transportation system but also injecting life into the local economy by creating thousands of jobs. This is a win-win situation for everyone involved. Find out how the project is progressing.
Here’s what we will cover:
- The scope of Wike’s bus terminal project in Abuja.
- The staggering number of jobs created: Over 3,000!
- The positive impact on Abuja residents.
- Project completion timelines and what to expect.
Wike’s Vision: Modernizing Abuja’s Commute
Minister Wike isn’t just building bus stops; he’s building a better future for Abuja residents. Back in July 2024, he kicked off the construction of three modern bus and taxi terminals strategically located in Mabushi, Central Area, and Kugbo. The goal? To give commuters a safe, comfortable, and convenient travel experience. Plus, it’s a fantastic opportunity to boost employment in the FCT.
3,000 Jobs and Counting!
Planet Projects, the company in charge of bringing Wike’s vision to life, has already hired over 3,000 people! This includes skilled workers, unskilled laborers, and security personnel. According to Project Manager Rasheed Sholadoye, hiring local residents was a key condition of the contract, aligning perfectly with the FCT Administration’s job creation strategy.
“FCT residents have enjoyed enormously from this project. We have employed a whole lot of them. You know it’s a construction site and certain workers will be needed at certain stages of the construction. It’s difficult to give you an exact number but more than 3,000 residents have been engaged and more will be employed as the work progresses,” he said.
From Construction Site to Economic Opportunity
These aren’t just temporary construction jobs either. The terminals promise long-term employment opportunities as they will need staff to manage and maintain the facilities once they are up and running. This includes everything from ticket vendors and security personnel to cleaning staff and maintenance crews. It’s a sustainable boost to the local economy.
Project Progress: When Can You Expect to See the Terminals Open?
Good news! The projects are well underway. The Mabushi terminal is almost done, at 92% completion, and the Kugbo terminal isn’t far behind at 85%. The Central Area terminal, which started a bit later due to underground infrastructure relocation, is currently at 50% completion. Sholadoye is optimistic that the Mabushi and Kugbo terminals will be ready by the end of February, with the Central Area terminal following in May.
Here is the project status:
- Mabushi: 92%
- Kugbo: 85%
- Central Area: 50%
More Than Just Bus Stops: A Glimpse into the Future
These terminals aren’t just about catching a bus. They’re designed to be modern, multi-functional spaces with commercial activities, including cinema halls, where people can relax while waiting for their rides. The Central Area terminal, in particular, is set to be a state-of-the-art facility that Abuja residents will be proud of.
Real People, Real Impact
The project is already changing lives. Happiness Johnson, a 29-year-old welder from Kubwa, now has a stable job thanks to the project. Abigail Daniel, a 31-year-old mother of four, went from being a jobless house help to a cleaner at the Mabushi terminal, giving her a renewed sense of hope for the future.
Daniel said she was working as a house help but lost the job when her employer travelled out of the country. “Life was difficult for me and my children until I got this job. I am grateful to the FCT minister for making this happen for me,” she said.
What’s Next?
As the terminals near completion, keep an eye out for the grand openings! These new facilities promise to transform the way people commute in Abuja, providing a safer, more convenient, and more enjoyable travel experience for all. Plus, with thousands of jobs created, the project is a major boost to the local economy. Minister Wike’s vision is becoming a reality!
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