Abia Govt. Pushes Transport Revolution with Electric Buses, Smart Traffic Systems – Ukaegbu
Abia state government says its vision for the transport sector is to build a world-class transportation ecosystem that will improve public transport safety and develop a transport funding strategy.
Speaking on Thursday in Umuahia during the Abia-Turkiye Investment Summit and Product Exhibition 2025, with the theme “Bridging Continents, Unlocking Prosperity”, the Abia State Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, disclosed that the Dr Alex Otti led administration is delivering a full-scale overhaul of its transport system through the introduction of electric buses, Ai-driven traffic lights and modern multimodal terminals.
He annouced that 20 electric buses had arrived, with another 20 expected within days and additional units scheduled for February would help the state move toward its target of 100 buses.
“We are the second state after Lagos to deploy electric buses.
“They reduce emissions to zero and lower operating costs, which helps us keep fares affordable,” Dr Ukaegbu pointed out.
The commissioner pointed out that the reforms were designed to make transportation safer, cheaper and more efficient.
“Our goal is simple, we want a safe, affordable, sustainable and accessible system that works for everyone.
“Transportation is not just about moving people and goods.
“It drives social integration, supports every sector and generates revenue for the state,” Ukaegbu noted.
Dr Ukaegbu made public that the ministry would also prioritise expanding access for persons with disabilities and strengthening multimodal connectivity.
He noted with delight that major progress had been recorded with the construction of the Abia Modern Bus Terminals in Umuahia and Aba, adding that the Umuahia terminal will be delivered before the end of this year, while the one in Aba will be ready by May 2026.
According to him, the terminals would be equipped with integrated ticketing, retail outlets and upgraded security.
He further informed the gathering that more than 70 modern bus shelters had been installed in Aba and Umuahia, with new ones under construction in Ohafia.
According to him, the state had also upgraded major junctions and traffic corridors, easing movement across urban centres.
On major junctions and tragic corridors, the Commissioner stated: “With the lay-bays and junction improvements, traffic flow has improved significantly”.
Dr Ukaegbu revealed that the ministry was partnering with road safety professionals to strengthen driver training.
