Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, on Wednesday, January 7, carried out an on-the-spot assessment of the ongoing construction of the Umuahia Central Bus Terminal, a flagship infrastructure project of his administration aimed at transforming urban mobility and modernising the state’s transport architecture.
The inspection underscored the administration’s resolve to deliver large-scale, people-oriented infrastructure that enhances efficiency, orderliness and economic activity in Abia’s urban centres. The Umuahia Central Bus Terminal, conceived as a one-stop transport hub, is designed to centralise all transport operations within the state capital, eliminating the disorder associated with scattered motor parks across the city.
Addressing journalists during the inspection, Governor Otti explained that the decision to build a centralised transport terminal was informed by global best practices and the need to introduce order, safety and convenience into public transportation in Umuahia.
According to the governor, the idea of a central bus terminal is neither novel nor experimental, noting that similar models exist in major cities across the world where transport infrastructure is seamlessly integrated with commercial and social facilities.
“This is not something new. It has been done elsewhere,” Governor Otti said. “When you go to the United Kingdom, for instance, Paddington Terminal ensures the convergence of railway services and other modes of transportation. You also have shopping plazas, cinemas, hotels and other facilities all in one place.”
He explained that his administration deliberately adopted this model to address the long-standing problem of multiple, unregulated transport terminals spread across Umuahia, which often create traffic congestion, safety concerns and environmental challenges.
“So, we thought it would be better to concentrate all transport terminals in one location instead of having different parks scattered all over the town. This approach will bring order, improve efficiency and make movement easier for commuters,” the governor added.
Governor Otti expressed satisfaction with the quality of work and the pace of construction at the site, commending the consultants and contractors handling the project for their professionalism and commitment. He noted that the project had reached an advanced stage and could be completed, or be very close to completion, before the end of January.
“The work is progressing very well, and the consultants are clearly up to the task,” he said. “I am pleased with both the level of progress and the quality of work that has been delivered so far. What I see here gives me confidence that by the end of this month, if the project is not fully completed, it will be very close to completion.”
The governor, however, emphasised that while timely delivery is important, quality and durability would not be compromised.
“Even if the contractors require a little more time, I am willing to grant it because it is better to get it right the first time. So far, everything looks good, and we are satisfied with the work being done,” he stated.
Also speaking during the inspection, the Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, said the central bus terminal is a critical component of the state government’s broader plan to restructure and modernise the transport sector.
According to him, the terminal is intended to serve as a unified transport hub where all forms of land transportation converge, providing commuters with ease of access and improved travel experience.
“We wanted to centralise all transport activities in Umuahia, and that is why His Excellency, in his wisdom, approved the construction of this central bus terminal,” Dr. Ukaegbu explained. “It will serve as a one-stop hub for all commuters, passengers and travellers.”
He added that the design of the facility allows for the integration of multiple modes of transportation, including road and rail services.
“Whatever mode of transport you intend to use, once you arrive at the central bus terminal, you will be able to access it. We have made provision for a railway station, a bus station and all other parks within this complex,” he said.
Dr. Ukaegbu further disclosed that all existing motor parks in Umuahia would be relocated to the central terminal upon completion, thereby creating a centralised park system not only in Umuahia but also in Aba, where a similar project is currently under construction.
“All the parks in Umuahia will be brought here. We are also replicating this model in Aba, and that project is expected to be completed by May. The goal is to have a well-organised, centralised transport system in the state’s major cities,” he said.
Beyond the bus terminal, Governor Otti also inspected several ongoing road projects across the state as part of his administration’s infrastructure monitoring exercise. Among the projects visited were road works around the Cooperatives axis and the Ahiaeke–Okwuta–Bende Road.
At the Ahiaeke–Okwuta–Bende Road project site, the governor was received by a representative of Craneburg Construction Company, Engineer Yousef Tawk, who briefed him on the progress of work and the technical challenges encountered, particularly around a section of the road affected by a nearby valley.
Governor Otti engaged the contractor in detailed discussions on engineering solutions that would ensure the long-term stability and durability of the road. Both parties agreed on the necessary measures to address the identified challenges and prevent future failures.
The governor urged the contractor to prioritise the completion of the road project before the onset of the rainy season, stressing the importance of timely delivery to minimise disruption to residents and road users.
In addition, Governor Otti took time to interact with passengers and crew members of the Abia Electric Buses, which were recently introduced as part of the state’s push for affordable, environmentally friendly public transportation. The electric buses have been offering free services to residents and visitors since their launch in December.
During the interaction, the governor sought firsthand feedback from users to ensure that the service was operating in line with the objectives set out at its launch. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving public transportation and reducing the cost burden on citizens.
The inspection tour was attended by several government officials, including the member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Obi Aguocha, the General Manager of the Umuahia Capital Development Authority, Mr. Kingsley Agomuo, and other senior government functionaries.
The Umuahia Central Bus Terminal is widely regarded as a transformative project that will redefine transportation in Abia State, promote urban renewal and stimulate economic activities. As the project nears completion, expectations are high that it will significantly improve mobility, enhance safety and position Umuahia as a modern, well-planned city aligned with global standards.
