The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared that starting January 2025, all commercial buses operating within Abuja must undergo security profiling by the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS). The move, aimed at enhancing public safety and reducing transportation crime, was announced at the FCT Renewed Hope Youth Empowerment Programme in Abuja on Thursday, where Wike also handed over new taxis to beneficiaries.
“These beneficiaries are not paying a dime,” Wike said, underscoring the government’s commitment to supporting families and lowering transportation costs across the city. “This is our support to feed your family and make transportation in Abuja more affordable… Our vision is to see Abuja compete with leading cities globally.”
The minister encouraged beneficiaries to embrace their new roles as taxi drivers, pointing out that many Nigerians work similar jobs overseas without hesitation. He emphasized the importance of seeing these opportunities as a dignified way to earn a living and support their families.
Security Measures to Combat Crime in Abuja’s Public Transport System
To address concerns over kidnapping and ‘one-chance’ robbery incidents, Wike revealed that starting January, any commercial bus that has not been vetted by security agencies will be barred from operating in Abuja. “Most of the Keke Napep and motorcycle operators are informants. From January, no one will be allowed to operate as a taxi or bus driver without security approval and profiling, as well as displaying the Abuja taxi color,” Wike said.
He highlighted the need for all commercial vehicles to adhere strictly to the city’s regulations, including obtaining approval from security agencies and carrying Abuja’s designated colors for commercial transport. “Nothing like using any unmarked vehicle on the road,” he stated. “We will record the vehicle number, driver’s name, and other essential details to ensure the public feels safe when boarding these vehicles.”
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