The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, has revealed plans to ban unpainted taxis and buses from operating on roads in the nation’s capital, as part of measures to address the issue of ‘one chance’ incidents.
During a media chat in Abuja, Wike emphasized that the move is aimed at curbing the menace of ‘one chance’ in the city, and stricter measures are necessary to eliminate this trend in the FCT.
Wike stated, “We are not going to allow vehicles that are not painted with FCT colour and registered by the FCTA to ply commercial in the territory. That way, you know the driver is certified by the FCT, and the FCT also approved the buses and the taxes.”
He highlighted that the initiative is designed to enhance passenger safety and reduce the risks associated with entering unidentified vehicles.
According to Wike, it ensures that drivers are certified by the FCT, and their vehicles have received approval.
Uber operators will also need to register to operate in Abuja, to establish their identities and ensure certification and profiling by security agencies, Wike added.
He emphasized the importance of rules in the city to prevent problems. Expressing concern about the lack of an official terminal in the capital territory, Wike revealed plans to build three terminals in the 2024 fiscal year.
This initiative aims to establish designated terminals where residents can board buses to specific destinations, enhancing accountability and reducing the risks associated with hailing unidentified taxis on the road.
Wike concluded, “When this is done, nobody will take the risk of going on the road to wave for a taxi. That way, you will be able to reduce crime.”
