Abia Launches Urban Mass Transit Pilot, Records Over 31,500 Passengers

The Abia State Government has formally rolled out the pilot phase of its long-awaited Urban Mass Transit Scheme, with operations beginning on December 24, 2025. The initiative, aimed at easing transportation challenges and improving mobility for residents, was announced by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, during the state’s weekly press briefing in Umuahia.

Prince Kanu explained that the pilot phase was designed to test the efficiency, reliability and public acceptance of the transport system before the commencement of full commercial operations. As part of the pilot, the state introduced free intra-city and inter-city bus services along major transport corridors, enabling residents to move around at no cost while the system is being fine-tuned.

According to him, three intra-city routes are currently operational in both Umuahia and Aba, the state’s two major urban centres. In addition, inter-city bus services are running between Umuahia and Aba in both directions, providing a reliable link between the two commercial hubs. He noted that the number of buses deployed daily varies depending on demand, ranging from four buses on low-traffic days to as many as 17 buses during peak periods.

The commissioner described the response from the public as “very encouraging,” saying the high patronage recorded so far demonstrates the people’s growing trust in government-driven transport initiatives. He disclosed that more than 31,500 passengers have already taken advantage of the free bus services since the pilot phase began, a figure he said clearly shows the strong need for an organized and affordable public transport system in the state.

Prince Kanu added that preparations are underway for the transition to full commercial operations. He, however, assured residents that the free rides will continue until the full commercial services are officially launched, so that commuters can keep benefiting from the scheme during the transition period.

Beyond transportation, the commissioner also spoke on developments in the education sector, particularly the ongoing teachers’ recruitment exercise. He revealed that the second batch of the recruitment programme, which opened on November 6 and closed on November 29, 2025, attracted a total of 28,213 applications from qualified candidates across the state.

Following the closure of the application portal, applicants were given a review and verification window to check their details and correct any errors in their submissions. Prince Kanu said this window is expected to close this week, after which the recruitment process will move into its next phase.

He explained that candidates who are successfully shortlisted will be invited to sit for computer-based tests, after which those who pass will proceed to the interview stage. At the end of the exercise, the state government plans to recruit an additional 4,000 teachers to strengthen the public education system. These new recruits will be added to the 5,394 teachers already employed by the state government last year as part of efforts to address manpower gaps in schools.

The commissioner further disclosed that the Abia State Government is also making deliberate efforts to modernize and digitalise its operations. In line with this goal, the government has procured and distributed laptops to all senior government officials in the state. He said the move is aimed at improving efficiency, enhancing record-keeping and ensuring faster and more transparent service delivery across ministries, departments and agencies.

Prince Kanu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to using technology, improved infrastructure and human capital development to drive good governance and improve the quality of life of Abia residents.