Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, on Wednesday, January 7, inspected the ongoing construction of the Umuahia Central Bus Terminal, a flagship infrastructure project of his administration.
Speaking to journalists during the inspection, Governor Otti explained that the project was conceived to centralise transport operations in Umuahia, rather than having multiple, scattered motor parks across the city. He noted that the idea of a central transport hub is a global best practice.
“This is not a new concept; it has been done elsewhere. In the United Kingdom, for example, Paddington Terminal brings together rail transport and other modes of transportation. You also have shopping plazas, cinemas, hotels—everything in one place,” the governor said.
He added that the Umuahia Central Bus Terminal is designed to replicate such efficiency by bringing all transport terminals together in one location, thereby improving orderliness, safety, and convenience for commuters.
Governor Otti commended the quality of work and the level of progress recorded so far, expressing optimism that the project would be completed, or very close to completion, by the end of January.
“The work is progressing very well, and the consultants are doing an excellent job. I am satisfied with both the quality and pace of the work. From what I have seen, even if the project is not fully completed by the end of this month, it will be very close,” he said.
He, however, emphasised that quality would not be sacrificed for speed. “If they need more time, we will give them more time. It is better to do it right the first time. But so far, so good,” the governor added.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, said the central bus terminal is aimed at harmonising all transport activities in Umuahia into a single, well-organised hub.
“His Excellency, in his wisdom, decided to build a central bus terminal that will serve as a one-stop transport hub for commuters, passengers, and travellers. Whatever mode of transport you want to use, once you come here, you will be able to access it,” Dr. Ukaegbu explained.
He disclosed that the terminal is planned to accommodate a railway station, a bus station, and all existing motor parks in Umuahia, adding that similar facilities are also being constructed in Aba and are expected to be completed by May.
Governor Otti also inspected ongoing road projects around the Cooperatives axis and along the Ahiaeke–Okwuta–Bende Road. At the Ahiaeke–Okwuta–Bende site, a representative of Craneburg Construction, Engineer Yousef Tawk, briefed the governor on the progress of work. The governor and the contractor discussed measures to ensure a lasting solution to a section of the road affected by a nearby valley. Governor Otti urged the contractor to complete the project before the onset of the rainy season.
In addition, the governor interacted with passengers and crew members of the Abia Electric Buses, which have been offering free services to residents and visitors since their launch in December. He sought feedback to ensure the buses are operating as directed.
The governor was accompanied on the inspection tour by the member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency, Hon. Obi Aguocha; the General Manager of the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA), Mr. Kingsley Agomuo; and other government officials.
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