Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has commissioned the newly completed Nnenna Oti Bus Terminal in Umuahia, describing the facility as a major step towards building a modern, safe and sustainable transport system in the state.
The multimodal transport hub, which is now open for public use, is designed to accommodate more than 340 buses at a time and is integrated into the state’s expanding electric bus network.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Otti said the terminal reflects his administration’s commitment to raising infrastructure standards and moving beyond what he described as “the era of small ambitions.”
According to the governor, the project is powered by sustainable infrastructure and supported by independent electricity and water systems to ensure uninterrupted operations.
Otti disclosed that 20 electric buses are already in operation across the state, while additional buses are expected to arrive in the coming weeks as part of efforts to modernise public transportation.
The governor said the facility was named after Prof. Nnenna Nnennaya-Oti, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Returning Officer during the 2023 Abia governorship election, in recognition of her courage and integrity.
He noted that the naming of the terminal goes beyond honouring one individual, stressing that it serves as a tribute to electoral officials, security operatives, party agents and citizens who resisted intimidation and defended democracy during the election.
“Her integrity and patriotism remind us that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary results by simply standing for the truth,” Otti stated.
The governor also commended the contractors, Planet Projects Limited, for delivering what he described as a landmark facility.
He further praised the Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, the Senior Special Assistant on Transport, Dr. Obioma Nwaogbe, and their team for their contributions towards the successful completion of the project.
Otti urged residents and members of the host community to protect the terminal from vandalism and maintain a clean environment to ensure its sustainability.
“This terminal belongs to you, and its success depends on your care,” he said.
The governor also called on residents of the state to pay their taxes regularly, stressing that sustainable development requires collective responsibility and adequate public funding.
