Wike Dismisses Claims Of Bus Terminal Roof Damage At Kugbo Terminal

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed claims that the yet-to-be-commissioned Kugbo Bus Terminal collapsed, describing the reports as incorrect.

Speaking with journalists on Monday after an inspection tour of key project sites, Wike instead blamed a recent windstorm for blowing off roofing sheets at the facility.

He reassured the public that the structural integrity of the building remains intact.

“The terminal did not collapse. That information is incorrect. What happened was that a very strong windstorm blew off parts of the roof. The terminal is located on elevated terrain in Kugbo, making it more exposed to extreme weather conditions.

“The force of the wind removed the roofing sheets, but there was no structural failure. Incidents like this occur globally due to extreme weather conditions. We are grateful that no lives were lost. Work is already ongoing to reinstall the roofing sheets.

“If there had been a structural collapse, that would have been a different matter entirely. But in this case, the building itself remains sound,” he said.

Despite the weather-related setback, Wike expressed broad satisfaction with ongoing infrastructure development across the FCT.

“I am pleased with what we have seen across all the project sites. Initially, I had some concerns, but the contractors consistently assured us of their commitment to completion.

“Specifically, they have confirmed that the road works will be completed by May 15, while the installation of streetlights will be finalized by the end of May,” he said.

In the Gaduwa district, Wike disclosed that he ordered additional protective measures.

“I directed that protective mesh wire be added along the road corridor to prevent traders from encroaching on the roadside. The streetlight installation there is progressing well and will also be completed before the end of May,” he said.

Turning to the Wassa informal sector project, the minister highlighted a major policy achievement.

“Successive administrations have promised to relocate informal artisans, particularly mechanics, from their current locations. I am pleased that this administration, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, is fulfilling that commitment.

“The contractor, CGC Nigeria Limited, has assured us that the project will be completed by the end of May. We are now working on modalities to facilitate the relocation of these informal sector operators to the new facility.

“One thing worth emphasising is the strong working relationship we maintain with our contractors. In Abuja, once contracts are awarded, contractors are expected to deliver as agreed, and the government, in turn, meets its payment obligations. This mutual commitment has helped sustain project delivery,” he said.

When asked whether President Bola Tinubu would commission the projects, Wike responded, “With the progress observed, it may be challenging for the President to personally attend all commissioning events, but we will see how best to proceed.

“Some projects may be commissioned by representatives. This project, particularly the one concerning the informal sector, is very important. It demonstrates the President’s commitment to improving the livelihoods of ordinary Nigerians.”

The minister reiterated his overall satisfaction with the quality of work delivered so far, insisting that the FCT administration remains on track to meet its deadlines while maintaining transparency and accountability.