Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike, Sets Security Standards for Commercial Buses to Curb Crime.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has announced that beginning in January 2025, all commercial buses operating within Abuja will undergo profiling by the Nigeria Police Force and Department of State Services (DSS). This move, aimed at enhancing security and curbing incidents of kidnapping and “one-chance” robberies, will make it mandatory for all commercial buses to be registered and profiled before they are allowed on the road.
Wike made the announcement during the FCT Renewed Hope Youth Empowerment Programme in Abuja, where he also distributed new cars to beneficiaries for use as taxis.
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Wike Speaking at the event, emphasized that the initiative supports economic empowerment and is part of efforts to make Abuja competitive with global cities. The new taxis were provided at no cost to recipients, with Wike encouraging them to take pride in their new roles, noting that taxi driving is often readily embraced by Nigerians working abroad.
From January 2025, commercial vehicles without security approval and the Abuja color scheme will be banned from operating. The profiling process will document the vehicle number, driver details, and provide a verified database to enhance passenger safety, as explained by the minister. Additionally, Wike pointed out that some tricycles and motorcycles often act as informants, underlining the importance of robust security measures.
