Abuja: The Federal Government has unveiled plans to construct bus terminals and compressed natural gas (CNG) stations across the six geopolitical zones to enhance transportation and improve road safety. The Minister of Transportation, Said Ahmed Alkali, announced this in Abuja during a meeting with members of the Abuja Transport and Aviation Correspondents Association (ATACA).
According to Voice of Nigeria, the newly approved National Land Transport Policy by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) will provide a regulatory framework for the road sector and enhance safety. The minister highlighted that this policy is unprecedented in the country’s history, noting that the transport sector is a critical mode of transportation worldwide. He emphasized the need to harness untapped potential by establishing a robust framework to guide the sector’s operations, which will be strengthened by this policy’s passage.
The government has approved the construction of six bus terminals, one in each geopolitical zone, as a pilot scheme, with locations selected based on economic viability. Alkali stated that the government plans to engage with the World Bank for the development of these terminals. Each terminal will feature a CNG refuelling centre and the presence of security agencies. The government will mandate the use of passenger manifests to ensure safety, regardless of whether buses are government-owned or privately operated.
The minister also discussed progress in the rail sector, noting that the Port Harcourt-Aba corridor has been operational since last year. Efforts are underway to establish another corridor from Kaduna to Kano by next year. Track-laying has commenced on the Kano-Katsina branch line through Jigawa State. Alkali emphasized the critical role of transportation as a gateway to a nation’s economy, with the potential to boost growth and improve citizens’ livelihoods.