By Omeiza Ajayi
ABUJA: The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory FCT, Barrister Nyesom Wike, has disclosed that the mega bus terminals in the nation’s capital would soon be operational after administrative approvals from the Federal Executive Council FEC.
Speaking during a “marathon inspection” of various infrastructure projects across the territory on Thursday, the minister clarified that the management framework for the terminals exceeds the approval limit of the FCT Administration.
“It is not as easy as we thought. After building these terminals, we decided that the Transport Secretariat would not run them. Instead, they will be managed by competent private individuals. Because the contract for this management is beyond ministerial approval, it requires the FEC’s nod. I expect it to be presented at the next meeting, and once approved, we hit the road”, he stated.
Addressing inquiries regarding the funding of the massive road networks, Wike revealed that the projects are being financed almost exclusively through Internally Generated Revenue IGR rather than the Federation Account.
“The Federation Account allocations are not even enough to pay salaries. That is why we are very aggressive in our drive for IGR. To the glory of God, we have been doing quite well, and that is what is funding these projects”, he stated.
The inspection tour, which covered sites from Wuse to the Central Business Area and through Mabushi and Wuye, showcased significant progress.
Wike expressed satisfaction with the quality of work delivered by contractors, noting that the projects are designed to “open up” the FCT and stimulate economic activity.
Responding to concerns over the vandalism of newly installed streetlights in Garki 2 and other areas, the minister announced a shift toward technology-driven security. He noted that companies like CCECC and CGC are integrating advanced “security features” into the infrastructure.
“How many policemen can you have on the road to check vandalism? We are moving toward a situation room where we can monitor these facilities. The new installations will have features that make them nearly impossible to manipulate or uproot”, the minister said.
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