By Stanley Onyekwere
The Federal Capital Territory Administration ( FCTA) has inaugurated 14 High capacity air conditioned buses of the Transport For All (TFA) for operation, a private sector’s transportation scheme, towards providing secure and efficient mass transit around the city.
Our correspondent reports that the inauguration of the transport scheme tagged: ‘TFA 360’ was said to be a beginning of a transportation system designed to end the menace of robbery through the one-chance syndicate in Abuja.
Commissioning the buses, the Mandate Secretary, FCTA’s Secretariat of Transportation, Arc Ubokutom Nyah, noted that FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike has the vision of changing the narrative of the transportation system of Abuja.
Nyah revealed that many other private sector investors were being expected to join efforts in providing alternative sources of transportation that will be reliable and affordable.
According to him: “The journey to what we are witnessing today, started months ago when the company applied to the Transportation Secretariat for issuance of operator license to enable the buses operate in the FCT.
“We are happy that our efforts for private sector participation in transportation sector are yielding results.
“This is a clear confirmation of private sector reaction to the charisma of our honourable minister, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike in attracting development to Abuja.
“These operators deployment will definitely provide alternative sources of transportation to augment the services currently provided by the Abuja Urban Mass Transit Company.
“The interest shown by these companies in the FCT is based on the investment building confidence brought about by the honourable minister since he assumed duties as the FCT minister.
“Let me at this juncture welcome new private sector participation in the provision of mass transit facilities for the teeming population of the FCT. There are still greater opportunities to explore in this sector.”
On his part, TFA’s Managing Director, Dr. Yakubu Terry, said the firm and its investors want to turn the mission into reality, hence it devised strategic plans that focus on key city areas and environs.
He said: “By connecting these areas, we are connecting the dots for progress and to create a web of convenience that shreds through the fabric of the capital city of Abuja.
“ Our strategy is not just in the number of buses on the road, It is also about creating a comprehensive and accessible network that serves the needs of our city residents.
“We prioritize and leverage in technology to optimize operations with due given time and overall community experience.”
