Gratitude was the tone of the day as His Excellency Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR, formally commissioned the Ibadan Central Bus Terminals 1 & 2 — a landmark moment not only for Oyo State, but for the evolving story of urban mobility in Nigeria. Governor Seyi Makinde expressed appreciation for the former President’s presence, noting that it signifies the national importance of the project and reinforces his administration’s commitment to completing every initiative it begins. For Makinde, these terminals are more than brick and mortar—they represent the fulfilment of a promise made to the people of Oyo State.
In his remarks, the governor highlighted that the terminals are a key part of a long-term vision to transform Oyo State into a truly modern region with transport systems that meet global standards. He emphasized that the goal is to create a state where movement is safe, predictable, and efficient, where businesses benefit from infrastructure that supports ambition, and where residents feel the tangible effects of good governance in their daily lives. The Ibadan Central Bus Terminals, in this regard, symbolize a new chapter for the city: one where public transport is organized, dignified, and capable of supporting economic growth.
The impact of this new infrastructure is expected to ripple across the city in profound ways. For years, Ibadan—like many bustling Nigerian cities—has grappled with traffic congestion, unregulated bus stops, and chaotic commuting patterns. These new terminals bring order to the landscape, reducing roadside loading and ensuring smoother traffic flow across major routes. Commuters will begin to enjoy structured boarding areas, safer environments, and more predictable travel times, all of which enhance the quality of urban living. For the business community, the terminals offer a more reliable transport network that helps ease the movement of people and improves access to markets, offices, and commercial hubs.
Beyond convenience, the terminals will reshape the transportation ecosystem itself. The formalisation of bus operations helps create a more professional transport culture—one that benefits operators, commuters, regulators, and the environment. Modern facilities mean reduced carbon emissions from idling vehicles and more sustainable traffic patterns, reinforcing Oyo State’s commitment to environmentally conscious development. In the long run, such improvements create a city that attracts investment, encourages tourism, and inspires confidence in both local and international partners.
Governor Makinde also emphasized that the significance of these terminals extends beyond the borders of Oyo State. Their completion should serve as a signal to other Nigerian states that transport systems must evolve to meet the demands of rapidly growing populations. Across the world, cities that have embraced modern transportation—whether in Rwanda, Ethiopia, or East Asia—have seen transformative effects on productivity, safety, and overall urban appeal. Nigeria cannot afford to lag behind. Outdated, disorganized systems limit economic potential and reduce the quality of life for millions. Modernising transportation is not a luxury; it is a necessity for competitiveness in a 21st-century economy.
The Ibadan Central Bus Terminals therefore stand as a model, a blueprint showing what is possible when leadership is intentional and development is people-centred. They demonstrate that urban progress is achievable when projects are pursued with continuity, collaboration, and a clear vision for the future.
With this commissioning, Ibadan takes a confident step forward. The transformation of its transport landscape is not just an infrastructural feat—it is a statement of ambition. As the state continues to evolve, these terminals mark the beginning of a new era where public service meets global standards, and where the people of Oyo State can truly feel the momentum of a modern city on the rise.
Tony Emeka Nwosu
