The Nnenna Oti Bus Terminal recently opened for public use by Governor Alex Otti in Umuahia, the Abia State capital, has recorded a significant upsurge in passenger patronage with over 8,891 users.
Commissioner for Information Prince Okey Kanu disclosed the figure while reviewing the 3rd anniversary activities noting that the Abia Green Shuttle electric bus scheme had positioned the State among sub-national governments investing in modern state-of-art transport infrastructure.
Kanu explained that the facility and the electric buses were designed to promote safety, efficiency, affordability and sustainable mobility while supporting economic growth.
The commissioner revealed that the Aba Central Bus Terminal was under construction and would feature 40 bus shelters, charging stations and junction improvement works upon completion.
He declared that the government had taken the issue of safety further by completing the Computerised Vehicle Inspection Centre in Aba and Umuahia for modern vehicle testing services aimed at improving roadworthiness and reducing accidents.
According to Kanu, the operational success of the Bus Service since the test run period points to the growing public confidence in the service due to its comfort, safety and affordable fares.
The Commissioner said more projects not captured in the 3rd anniversary programme would be commissioned in the days ahead
On road infrastructure, Prince Kanu said an additional 82 roads spanning more than 200 km would be completed in the coming months, bringing the total road network delivered by the administration to over 1,000 km.
The Information Commissioner disclosed that the state government had initiated major tourism development projects including the construction of monuments in strategic locations across Aba and Umuahia to preserve the State’s cultural heritage and boost tourism, renovation and retrofitting at the Ojukwu Bunker and National War Museum, to enhance historical education and tourism and the development of the Ibom Water Falls in Arochukwu as an international tourism site.
Prince Kanu disclosed that the government, in partnership with the Wife of the Governor and the Ministry of Women Affairs, would stage a reenactment of the historic Aba Women Riot to honour the heroines of the movement and celebrate distinguished women across the state with Abia -born Nollywood stars.
Kanu hinted that the State’s bid for inclusion in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network under the Design category was progressing steadily, noting that the initiative was aimed at showcasing Aba’s globally recognised strengths in fashion, leather works and craftsmanship.
