The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has announced that starting January 2025, all commercial buses operating in Abuja will be profiled by the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS).
This measure aims to enhance security and reduce incidents of crime, such as kidnapping and “one-chance” robbery, in the capital.
Wike made the announcement during the FCT Renewed Hope Youth Empowerment Programme in Abuja, where he distributed new cars to beneficiaries for use as taxis. He emphasized that the government is providing these vehicles at no cost to help support families and lower transportation costs in the city. He encouraged the beneficiaries to take pride in their roles as taxi drivers, highlighting that many Nigerians embrace similar jobs abroad.
To ensure safety, Wike stated that any commercial vehicle not properly profiled by security agencies will not be allowed to operate in Abuja. He detailed that from January, all taxi and bus drivers must have their vehicles approved and must display the official Abuja color scheme.
This initiative will involve collecting vehicle numbers and driver information to enhance passenger confidence.
