Abia Govt Begins Enforcement of Centralised Transport System in Umuahia

The Abia State Government has begun enforcing its newly introduced centralised transport system in Umuahia, with transport operators being relocated in phases to the Nnenna Otti Bus Terminal.

The Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, disclosed this on Tuesday while briefing journalists at the Government House in Umuahia on the outcome of the State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti.

Kanu said the government engaged transport stakeholders through a series of meetings before commencing enforcement, noting that concerns raised by operators were addressed to facilitate a smooth transition.

According to him, operations have already commenced at the terminal, with informal transport operators and unions moved to the facility despite some resistance.

“There appears to be some pushback among some operators because people do not easily embrace change,” Kanu said.

He explained that all transport parks in the state are being relocated to the terminal, adding that the Commissioner for Transport and his team have continued consultations with operators to address their concerns.

“Enforcement commenced today to ensure all operators move into the terminal. The first phase involves the Abia Green Shuttle buses, the second phase covers informal transport operators, while the third phase will involve formal transport operators,” he said.

Speaking on the development, the Commissioner for Transport, Dr Chimezie Ukaegbu, said the initiative was not aimed at depriving anyone of their livelihood but at creating a more organised and efficient transport system.

He revealed that transport unions and operators were asked to nominate four representatives each to work at the terminal, where they would be properly identified and integrated into the new system.

Ukaegbu stated that the terminal operates a transparent loading system based on a first-come, first-served arrangement, regardless of union affiliation. He added that between 80 and 90 per cent of operators had already embraced the initiative, while discussions were ongoing with those yet to comply.

The commissioner further highlighted facilities provided at the terminal, including an air-conditioned drivers’ lodge and waiting areas for passengers.

“What else will you need as a transporter or even as a passenger? Everything good about transportation is embedded in the Nnenna Otti Bus Terminal,” he said.

Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, said the centralisation policy would help reduce traffic congestion, eliminate indiscriminate loading points, lower operational costs for transporters and improve security.

He added that the initiative would curb extortion and other irregularities in the transport sector while creating a more organised system that benefits both operators and commuters.