The Abia State Government has commenced the phased relocation of transport operators to the newly established Nnenna Otti Bus Terminal in Umuahia as part of efforts to introduce a centralised and more organised transportation system.
The development was announced by the State Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, while briefing journalists on the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti.
According to Kanu, the government held several consultations with transport unions and operators before rolling out the policy to address concerns and ensure a smooth transition.
He explained that operations have already begun at the terminal, with informal transport operators and unions gradually moving into the facility.
“There appears to be some pushback among some operators, but that is expected because people do not easily embrace change,” Kanu said.
He noted that the government has now commenced enforcement to ensure all transport operators comply with the directive.
Kanu disclosed that the relocation would be carried out in phases, beginning with the Abia Green Shuttle buses, followed by informal operators and eventually formal transport companies.
Speaking on the initiative, the Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, said the government was not taking away anyone’s source of income but was instead creating a more structured transport system that would benefit both operators and passengers.
He revealed that transport unions were asked to nominate workers who would be properly identified and integrated into the new system.
Ukaegbu also stated that the terminal operates a transparent loading system based on first-come, first-served arrangements, regardless of union affiliation.
According to him, between 80 and 90 percent of transport operators have already embraced the initiative, while discussions continue with those yet to comply.
The commissioner highlighted some of the facilities available at the terminal, including an air-conditioned drivers’ lodge and a comfortable waiting area for passengers.
“What else will you need as a transporter or even as a passenger? Everything good about transportation is embedded in that Nnenna Otti Bus Terminal,” he said.
Also speaking, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, said the centralised transport system would help reduce traffic congestion, eliminate illegal loading points, improve security, and reduce operational costs for transport operators.
He added that the initiative would also tackle extortion and other challenges that have long affected the transportation sector in the state.
Source: Abia State Government / State Executive Council Briefing.
