Abuja: Dr Elechi Chinedum, the Mandate Secretary, Transport, Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), has expressed the FCTA’s determination to build more modern terminals to improve public transportation and reduce crime in FCT. Chinedum said this on Tuesday at Jabi Park in Abuja during eye screenings and drug sensitisation for transport operators in the FCT. The programme was organised by the Transporters For Tinubu 2027 Support Group.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, aside from mega bus terminals in Mabushi, Kugbo, and Central Area, the government is planning to build three more terminals to strengthen the transport sector by providing a comfortable space for commuters. Mr Segun Obayendo, National Coordinator of Transport For Tinubu 2027, mentioned that the initiative aims to uplift hardworking transporters across Nigeria and enhance health, safety, and sustainability in the transportation sector. The initiative includes free eye tests and care, sensitisation of commercial drivers on drug abuse, and a soft loan facility provided by the transporters’ cooperative society.
Furthermore, Mr Isiaka Abdullahi, Assistant Secretary of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), FCT branch, raised concerns about double taxation on drivers in the FCT. He suggested that the government should consider providing vehicles that drivers could pay back, rather than giving loans that might be diverted for other purposes. Abdullahi emphasized, “We don’t need a loan, we want vehicles. This is better. Some drivers will collect loans to go and marry another wives. Give us vehicles, we will not owe you any money. We will pay you back as scheduled.”
Additionally, Mr Ndubuisi Agabus, Assistant Director of Drug Prevention and Sensitisation at the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), urged drivers to avoid drug abuse and misuse. He highlighted that drug abuse could lead to accidents, violence, poor driving, strained relationships, and social isolation, and it also increases the risk of overdose, addiction, mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, and physical health problems like heart disease and liver damage.