FCT Bus Terminal Project Provides Employment and Stability for Artisans
The construction of three major bus terminals in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has significantly improved the livelihoods of artisans and laborers, many of whom were previously unemployed. The workers, mostly young artisans, expressed their gratitude while speaking with members of the FCT Minister’s Press Corps during a visit to the construction sites in Kugbo, Central Area, and Mabushi over the weekend.
The project, which was flagged off by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, in 2024, has created employment opportunities for thousands of residents. One of the beneficiaries, Ibrahim Aliyu, who works at the Mabushi bus terminal, shared how the project has changed his life.
Since I started working here last year, I no longer worry about food. The company pays me weekly, which allows me to provide for my family,” Aliyu said. “I am very happy because every morning I have a place to go to work, and I know I will earn something to take home. The minister should keep up the good work because, without this project, I wouldn’t have this opportunity.”
Another artisan, Aliyu Mohammed, echoed similar sentiments. He revealed that before the project commenced, he was jobless and struggled to make ends meet.
Before this project, I had no job. Now, I am always busy, and the money I earn helps me pay my children’s school fees and buy clothes for my wife,” Mohammed stated.
The project manager of Planet Projects, Mr. Rasheed Sholadoye, highlighted the employment benefits of the initiative, stating that over 3,000 residents have been engaged so far.
As part of the contract conditions, we were mandated to employ local residents to execute the project. This aligns with the FCT Administration’s strategy for job creation,” Sholadoye explained. “We have hired thousands of workers, and as the project progresses, even more will be employed.
Providing an update on the construction progress, Sholadoye noted that the Mabushi and Kugbo bus terminals are scheduled for inauguration by the end of February 2025.
Mabushi terminal is about 92% completed, Kugbo is at 85%, while the Central Area terminal is around 50% completed, he said. The Central Area terminal started later than the others due to the need to relocate some underground facilities near Eagle Square, but despite this, the projects remain on track and will be delivered as scheduled.”
The bus terminal construction project is part of a broader effort by the FCT Administration to improve public transportation infrastructure while simultaneously tackling unemployment in the capital city. Many residents continue to benefit from the economic ripple effect created by the project, reinforcing the government’s commitment to job creation and urban development.
