By The Capital Mirror
March 23, 2025
ABUJA — The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has unveiled an ambitious new public transportation initiative aimed at addressing the growing commuter challenges faced by residents of the nation’s capital.
In a press briefing held yesterday at the FCTA Secretariat, the Transportation Secretary, Alhaji Ibrahim Mahmood, announced the deployment of 250 new high-capacity buses that will ply major routes across the six area councils of the FCT.
“This initiative represents our commitment to improving the quality of life for Abuja residents through efficient, affordable, and reliable transportation services,” Mahmood said. “The new fleet will significantly reduce waiting times, ease congestion, and provide a more comfortable commuting experience.”
The transportation overhaul, which comes with an investment of ₦7.5 billion, includes the introduction of electronic payment systems, real-time tracking applications, and dedicated bus lanes on major highways.
Officials revealed that the initiative was developed following extensive studies of commuter patterns and consultations with community stakeholders over the past six months.
Mrs. Folake Adeyemi, a resident of Lugbe who attended the unveiling ceremony, expressed cautious optimism about the new initiative. “If implemented properly, this could be a game-changer for many of us who spend hours in traffic every day,” she said.
The FCTA has also announced plans to integrate the new bus system with the existing Abuja Light Rail to create a comprehensive transportation network. The first phase of the initiative will commence operations on April 15, serving the Kubwa, Airport Road, and Nyanya-Karu routes.
Transport experts have praised the move but emphasized the need for proper maintenance and management to ensure sustainability. Dr. Emmanuel Okafor, a transportation consultant, noted that “consistent implementation and enforcement of regulations will be critical to the success of this initiative.”
The FCTA has established a dedicated website and helpline for residents to provide feedback and suggestions as the new transportation system rolls out.
For more information on bus routes and schedules, visit www.fctabus.gov.ng or call the FCTA Transportation Helpline at 08000-FCTBUS.
