The Nigerian Federal Government has approved a budget of N142 billion for the development of six new ultra-modern bus terminals across the country’s six geopolitical zones. This landmark approval was announced following a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Minister of Transportation, Sai’du Alkali, revealed that the terminals will be strategically located in Abeokuta (South-West), Gombe (North-East), Kano (North-West), Lokoja (North-Central), Onitsha (South-East), and Ewu in Edo State (South-South). These locations were chosen based on their economic viability and the urgent need to address long-standing challenges in road transportation infrastructure.
“This is the first time the government is intervening in road infrastructure beyond the usual road construction projects,” Minister Alkali stated. He emphasized that the absence of proper bus terminals has contributed to a rise in crimes, road traffic accidents, and the proliferation of illegal arms and ammunition on Nigerian highways, affecting millions of commuters daily.
The Minister highlighted the critical importance of these terminals in enhancing commuter safety and improving transport connectivity across Nigeria. The project is intended to reduce traffic congestion, cut down on highway crime, and provide orderly and efficient transport hubs in major economic zones of the country.
In a related directive, the FEC also mandated all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) handling contracts under the 2024 budget to conclude their procurement processes by the end of September 2025, ensuring timely execution of funded projects.
This ambitious infrastructure initiative aligns with the Tinubu administration’s broader vision to modernize Nigeria’s transport system and improve the overall economic welfare of its citizens. The government is expected to collaborate with local and international partners to ensure the timely and efficient completion of these terminals with minimal disruption to commuters.
As the Nigerian government steps up its infrastructure game, these new bus terminals will play a transformative role in shaping the future of road transportation and public safety in the country. With an investment of N142 billion, this project marks a decisive move towards sustainable urban transport solutions for Nigeria.
The development promises to bring relief to millions of Nigerians who rely on road transport while boosting economic activities in the selected geopolitical zones.