Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has announced sweeping reforms in Abuja’s transport sector, beginning with the introduction of painted taxis as part of a broader effort to enhance urban security and restore order to the nation’s capital.
Speaking during an inspection tour to project sites on Friday, Wike said the new initiative will help clearly differentiate commercial taxis from private vehicles, making it easier to regulate transport operations and track criminal activity.
“Obviously, a lot of things will happen in the transport sector,” Wike said. “There will be a lot of reforms. A committee is already working, and before we even get to commissioning, we will roll out the transport sector reforms.”
“As part of our security measures, we must know those who are doing taxi business, and what colour they operate with so that if anything happens, we can easily identify them,” he explained.
The new painted taxi scheme, set to be implemented alongside fully functional bus and taxi terminals, is part of a major overhaul aimed at ending the disorganized system of illegal roadside parks, unregulated vehicles, and safety threats for commuters.
Wike emphasized that the new bus terminals including those at Mabushi and Kugbo are not just meant for buses, but will also accommodate taxis for seamless public transportation.
“What I told the contractor is that what should be here is both a bus and taxi terminal, not just buses. People should come here, board a bus or a taxi in a safe, clean, organized environment,” the Minister stated.
During the tour, Wike expressed satisfaction with the progress at the Kugbo Terminal, lauding the efforts of the indigenous contractor in delivering a project that matches international standards.
“I’m very happy with what I’ve seen,” Wike said. “Critics may say, ‘What’s wrong with them? They’re building motor parks.’ But look, every time we travel abroad, we see how cities are built. Why shouldn’t we have the same in our own capital?”
“This is not just a motor park this is infrastructure that promotes urban growth, improves security, creates jobs, and enhances the dignity of our city,” he added.
Wike also acknowledged that there had been initial setbacks and design errors in some of the transport projects, but emphasized that lessons have been learned, and improvements are being made.
“The first time we visited, I expressed my dismay. But you can’t compare then and now. When we return for the commissioning, it will be something else entirely,” he noted.
The FCT Minister’s reforms are part of the broader implementation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places infrastructure, security, and urban renewal at the heart of Nigeria’s developmental priorities.
Observers say the introduction of painted taxis, functioning terminals, and centralized transport coordination may mark a new era for Abuja’s public transportation, long plagued by disorderly systems and security concerns.
Wike assured that his administration is working closely with relevant agencies and stakeholders to ensure sustainability and enforcement of the new transport policies.
“We are doing everything possible to ensure that Abuja becomes a model city, not just in Nigeria, but across Africa. The transport sector is critical to that vision,” he concluded.
With final touches being made at the Kugbo Terminal and others, the FCT is expected to begin full operation of the new system within weeks a move that could transform how millions of residents commute daily in the capital city.
