Abia State Government has announced free urban mass transit services during the Christmas and New Year festive period, coinciding with the arrival and imminent launch of the state’s first batch of 20 electric buses. The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed this development at a press briefing held in Umuahia.
Prince Kanu revealed that Abia is poised to become the first state in Nigeria to roll out a government-owned electric bus transport scheme. The initial 20 electric buses arrived in the state in November and have since been assembled at the International Conference Centre (ICC) premises in Umuahia, where a temporary charging station has been installed to support operations.
The buses, each with a 40-seater capacity, are designed specifically for Abia State and can cover a distance of 400 kilometers when charged overnight. These vehicles will be deployed along major routes within the state, providing efficient and environmentally friendly transportation. Governor Alex Otti is expected to officially commission the electric bus service ahead of Christmas.
Looking ahead, the government plans to expand the fleet, with an additional 20 buses anticipated by February 2026, aiming for a total of 100 units in the first phase of the scheme. This initiative is managed by COSHARIS, a reputable automobile marketing company, under the supervision of the Abia State Ministry of Transportation. Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, the Commissioner for Transport, emphasized that this project is intended to complement, not compete with, private transport operators by de-risking the sector and encouraging private investment.
In related developments, Governor Otti has signed the Abia State Start-up Bill into law. The legislation provides a framework to promote innovation, support the growth of tech-enabled start-ups, and nurture digital talents, positioning Abia as an emerging technology hub in Nigeria.
Prince Kanu also highlighted the progress of the state’s youth empowerment program, noting that 850 graduands recently completed training under the initiative, bringing the total number of youths trained to 1,399.
Furthermore, the Abia State Global Medical Mission commenced on December 15, running until December 20. This medical outreach, a collaboration between the state government and Abia Diaspora Medical Personnel, is taking place at five centers across the state, including Abia Specialist Hospital Umuahia, Uzuakoli Methodist Hospital, Okoko Item Adult Care Center, Seventh-Day Adventist Diagnostic Center Ogbor Hill Aba, and Ahiaeke Medical Centre.
Regarding infrastructure, the state Ministry of Works has been actively engaged in projects across 54 direct labour sites. Two roads have been completed, while work continues on 32 projects distributed across Abia’s three senatorial zones.
Security agencies in the state have been placed on 24-hour alert to ensure the safety of residents and their properties during and after the holiday season. Citizens have been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
This comprehensive approach reflects Abia State’s commitment to improving public transportation, fostering technological innovation, enhancing healthcare access, and maintaining security for its citizens.
