The Abia State Government has ordered that all transport activities in Umuahia will now take place at the Nnenna Otti Bus Terminal in the state capital.
The Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, shared this news on Tuesday while speaking to reporters in Umuahia. He discussed the results of the State Executive Council meeting that held on Monday.
Mr Kanu mentioned that the state government has started enforcing a policy aimed at ending multiple motor parks. This move is to improve safety for commuters and manage traffic better.
He noted that operations have already begun at the terminal. The first phase includes the Abia Green Shuttle Buses. Informal transport operators and unions have also started using the facility.
Introduction of Formal Transport Companies
Mr Kanu explained that the next phase will involve formal transport companies like God is Good, GUO Motors, and Young Shall Grow. These companies will also operate from the terminal.
He said enforcement has started to ensure that all transport operators comply with this new system. "There appears to be some pushback from among some operators because people do not easily embrace change," he said.
He added, "What is happening is that all parks in the state have been moved to the bus terminal." The Commissioner for Transport and his team are meeting with the operators to address their concerns.
Mr Kanu promised that some of the issues raised will be sorted out soon while enforcement continues.
Transport Reforms Explained
The Commissioner for Transport, Chimezie Ukaegbu, spoke about the transport reforms. He said this initiative is meant to organize the sector and not to take away anyone’s means of livelihood.
He mentioned that transport operators are encouraged to bring their workers to the terminal for proper identification and registration. This includes giving out reflective vests to workers.
Mr Ukaegbu explained that the terminal uses a transparent loading system based on a first-come, first-served approach. This system works regardless of union membership.
He also said about 80 to 90 percent of transport operators have accepted the new plan. Discussions are still ongoing with those who have not complied yet.
Improvements for Passengers
He added that passengers now buy tickets from specific booths and board vehicles from organized loading areas. This change aims to reduce confusion, harassment, and multiple loading points.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, spoke about the service charges introduced by the government at the terminal.
He explained that these charges are needed for the maintenance and sustainability of the facility. He said that centralizing transport operations will help cut down on random parking and ease traffic congestion. It will also boost security by regulating how transport operators work in the state.
Mr Ekeoma concluded that this reform is part of the Abia State Government’s larger plan to modernize transportation and enhance public safety.
Drop your comment
No comments yet — be the first to drop the gist 👇