Abuja: The ongoing construction of three bus and taxi terminals by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has created more than 3,000 jobs for the residents of Abuja.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, Wike in July 2024 inaugurated the construction of three bus and taxi terminals, one each in Mabushi, Central Area, and Kugbo. The move, according to the minister, is to ensure a secure and convenient travel experience for commuters in the FCT and create job opportunities for the residents.

Mr. Rasheed Sholadoye, the Project Manager at Planet Projects, the company executing the projects, stated that the 3,000 workers include both skilled and unskilled artisans and security personnel. Sholadoye mentioned that part of the contract conditions required the company to employ residents as part of FCT Administration's strategy for job creation. He explained that more than 3,000 residents have been engaged, with more to be employed as the work progresses.

He further explained that while the construction of the bus terminals in Mabushi and Kugbo began in July 2024, the Central Area terminal started two months later due to the relocation of some underground facilities. Despite this delay, Sholadoye expressed optimism that the projects would be delivered as scheduled.

The Mabushi bus terminal has reached 92 percent completion, the Kugbo terminal is at 85 percent, and the Central Area terminal is about 50 percent complete. The terminals in Mabushi and Kugbo are expected to be ready for inauguration by the end of February, while the Central Area terminal is projected to be completed by May.

The projects include commercial activities in all terminals, featuring facilities like cinema halls for commuters to enjoy while waiting for their buses. Sholadoye highlighted the state-of-the-art facilities, especially at the Central Area terminal, which aims to be a standout feature for Abuja residents.

Some workers at the sites praised the initiative and lauded Wike for providing employment opportunities. Mr. Happiness Johnson, a 29-year-old welder from Kubwa, shared that the project provided him with stable employment and improved his standard of living. Similarly, Mrs. Abigail Daniel, a 31-year-old cleaner at the Mabushi terminal, expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating it offered her and her children a brighter future after she lost her previous job.