By Laide Akinboade, Abuja

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, on Tuesday, lamented that the past administration did not have vision to beautify the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, compared to states like Akwa Ibom, Rivers and Katsina .

President of the Senate stated this at the official flagoff the construction of Kugbo Bus Terminal, in Abuja.

He said the event is a significant milestone in the administration’s ongoing efforts to enhance the infrastructure and public transportation system in Abuja.

According to him, “The FCT is actually an international arenal, that should be beautified with an international coloration but unfortunately before the Advent of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Administration people Wonder whether we actually have a capital city considering the fact that if you go to Akwa Ibom State, and you see the roads, the airport and then you go to Rivers state and you see what Mr Project has done and then you go to Katsina, and other states of the federation including Kano , Kaduna and all that, you start wondering why FCT was neglected , i don’t think FCT was neglected I think the problem was that there were no vision.

“There was no vision that is the way I see it because if somebody recognized the fact that this is where all the ambassadors of various countries come this is where all heads of states, would come then there would have been a need to complete most of the artillery roads and even develop more”.

He continued, “This event is a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to enhance the infrastructure and public transportation system of the capital city of our beloved country.

“The development of these bus terminals is more than just a construction project; it is a testament to the good works and commitment of President Bola Tinubu’s government to the progress and modernization of Nigeria”.

Akpabio disclosed that, “This terminal will serve as a vital hub that will facilitate the efficient movement of people, reduce traffic congestion and improve the overall quality of life for residents and visitors alike in the city.

The Senate President stated that “the Kugbo Bus Terminal is designed to be a state-of-the-art facility, equipped with modern amenities to ensure comfort, safety, and convenience for all users.

“They will provide a structured and organized environment for our public transportation system, promoting greater efficiency and reliability.

“This project aligns with a broader vision for Abuja as a model city, not just within Nigeria, but across the entire African continent. A well-organized public transportation system is the backbone of any thriving metropolis, and with these terminals, we are laying a solid foundation for sustainable urban development.

He lauded the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike for the remarkable strides he made within a period of one year in transforming the capital into a modern city with efficient infrastructure.

Akpabio recalled the recent commissioning of several projects in the Federal Capital Territory Recently by his administration.

Akpabio commended the Minister for his efforts to upgrade transportation networks, construction of abandoned roads, enhance public services, and develop state-of-the-art facilities which, he said, are clearly visible and have been widely praised.

The Senate President said these infrastructural development would attract both investors and tourists thereby making Abuja a prime destination for business, public service and leisure.

He stated that, “the minister’s commitment to these developments has earned commendations from supporters and critics alike, highlighting the positive impact of his initiatives on the city’s growth and modernization.

“I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all those who are working tirelessly with him to bring Abuja back to the original plan as conceived by previous leaders. Let it be made known to you that your dedication and hard work are instrumental in driving our nation forward.”

The Senate President also acknowledged the support and cooperation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for given free hand to the Minister to restore Abuja to its original plan.

Akpabio said: “The restoration is manifesting daily and the flag off of this construction of Kugbo Bus Terminal is a testament that FCT will soon be better than many capital cities of developed countries.

“I seek the continued collaboration of the stakeholders and residents to ensure that these facilities are protected from theft and destructions. It is our collective responsibility to protect what belongs to us as the monies used for these projects belong to you and I as citizens of Nigeria.

“May I use this opportunity to appeal to the contractor to ensure that this project is completed on time and to the highest standards of quality. We must and should build a public transportation system that we can all be proud of.

“In conclusion I want to reiterate this present government’s unwavering dedication to the development of infrastructure that meets the needs of our growing population. The Kugbo Bus Terminals represent a significant step in this direction, and I am confident that they will serve as catalysts for further development and prosperity in Abuja and beyond”.

In his brief remarks at the ceremony, FCT Minister, Nyesome Wike, thanked the President of the Senate, for accepting to personally flag off the project.

He also thanked the chairmen of the Senate and House Committee of FCT for their support through funding in the 2024 Appropriation Act.

According to him, ” the Terminal we are flagging-off today, is not only for those who can afford it, it is also for those who cannot afford it. When completed in the next 12 to 15 months, the safety of commuters will be highly guaranteed, because it would bring an end to the incessant cases of “One Chance”, which has in the last few months led to the untimely death of unsuspecting residents in the FCT”.

Wike assured that the project would be completed and ready for use in record time, as those who would be saddled with the running of the parks were already working and planning towards its take-off.

” The project when completed would be operated by a private body, not the National Union of Road Transport Workers ( NURTW). We will ensure that whatever is obtainable in developed countries in the sectors would be done here to enhance patronage and confidence.”, he asserted.