The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has attributed the recent damage at the Kugbo Bus Terminal in Abuja to a severe windstorm, dismissing reports that the facility suffered a structural collapse.
Speaking to journalists on Monday after inspecting ongoing infrastructure projects across the capital city, Wike explained that only the roofing of the terminal was affected, while the main structure remains intact.
According to the minister, the intensity of the windstorm, which occurred during a heavy rainfall, was unusually strong and powerful enough to dislodge the steel roofing sheets of the terminal situated on an elevated hill.
“The kind of wind we experienced was something we had never imagined. The terminal is located on top of a hill, higher than surrounding structures. The wind blew off the roofing sheets, but the main structure was not affected,” he said.
Wike dismissed calls for sanctions against the contractor, stressing that the damage was caused by natural forces beyond human control.
“If the building had collapsed, then we would talk about sanctioning the contractor. But this is nature; there was nothing the contractor could have done,” he added.
During the inspection tour, the minister also expressed satisfaction with the progress of several key infrastructure projects within the Federal Capital Territory. These include the OSEX main carriageways, internal roads in Gaduwa District, and access routes to the Wasa Informal Sector.
He disclosed that the contractor, China Geo-Engineering Construction Company, has assured that major components of the OSEX project will be ready for commissioning by May 2026.
Wike further noted that access roads within Gaduwa District are nearing completion, adding that directives have been issued for the installation of protective mesh to prevent encroachment. He also confirmed that street lighting installations in the district are ongoing.
On the Wasa Informal Sector project, the minister said infrastructure development is expected to be completed by the end of May, paving the way for the relocation of traders from the Apo Mechanic Village.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for fulfilling a long-standing commitment to relocate the traders, a promise previous administrations had failed to implement.
Wike also addressed reports alleging that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) was denied access to a venue for its national convention in Abuja, firmly rejecting the claim.
He said neither his office nor the Abuja Investments Company received any formal application from the party to use facilities such as the Eagle Square.
“Nobody has written to us. I am not aware of any such request. Why would we deny them when such engagements generate revenue for public projects?” the minister said.
He further clarified that the Velodrome, previously used by political parties including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), falls under the jurisdiction of the National Sports Commission and not the FCT Administration.
Reaffirming the administration’s position, Wike stated that all political parties are free to use public venues in Abuja, provided they comply with established procedures and payment requirements.
