The Federal Capital Territory Administration has unveiled plans to introduce new buses and taxis to enhance public transportation in Abuja and address the growing menace of "one chance" operators.
The announcement was made by the Minister of the FCT, Mr. Nysom Wike, during a high-level meeting with estate developers in Abuja on Tuesday.
Wike assured residents that the implementation of this initiative will commence within the next month, effectively addressing the security concerns posed by "one chance" operators.
“I assure you that once the buses and taxis are on the road, the problem of “one chance” will be a thing of the past.
“However, if you make the mistake of going to a taxi or bus that is not our own, it is your own problem.
“The buses and taxis will ply the routes of Maitama, Asokoro, and other parts of the city,” he said.
Addressing the issue of commercial tricycle operators, Wike announced the FCT Administration's decision to phase them out from the city center.
This decision, according to Wike, stems from the concern that some tricycle operators are involved in criminal activities, posing a threat to public safety.
While acknowledging the potential impact of this decision on the livelihoods of tricycle operators, Wike emphasized the paramount importance of safeguarding the city and its residents.
He encouraged the affected operators to consider relocating their operations to rural areas where their services are more in demand.
The minister explained that the initial delay in taking action against tricycle operators was due to the absence of adequate alternative transportation options.