By Ihechinyere Chigemeri-Uwom
Umuahia, Jan. 7, 2027 (NAN) – Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has expressed profound satisfaction with the rapid progress and high-quality construction of the Umuahia Central Bus Terminal, heralding it as a cornerstone project in the state’s ambitious urban renewal and modern mobility agenda.
The Governor’s endorsement came during a detailed inspection tour of the site on Wednesday, where he engaged with project consultants and engineers. Otti described the terminal as more than just a construction project; it is a strategic intervention designed to dismantle decades of chaotic transport operations and replace them with a system built on efficiency, safety, and passenger comfort.
“This project is inspired by global best practices in integrated transport,” Otti stated, directly citing the Paddington Station model in London. “We are moving away from the inefficient, scattered motor parks that clog our city streets and create security concerns. The vision is a single, unified hub where rail, inter-city buses, intra-city transport, and commercial services converge seamlessly.”
This consolidation, the Governor explained, is the key to transformation. Instead of multiple, poorly regulated parks, a single terminal allows for centralized ticketing, coordinated schedules, enhanced security surveillance, and proper amenities for commuters. It represents a fundamental shift from informal, reactive transport management to a planned, modern system.
Otti reported that construction is advancing steadily, with visible structural work suggesting the project could reach a near-complete state by the end of January. He was quick to add a crucial caveat: “While the pace is encouraging, we will not sacrifice quality for speed. The contractors have demonstrated strong technical competence, and if they need more time to ensure every detail is perfect, they will have it. This project must be built to last and serve generations.”
Echoing the Governor’s vision, the State Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, provided granular details on the terminal’s multifunctional design. “This is conceived as a true one-stop, multimodal transport hub,” Ukaegbu said. “It will integrate a railway station, dedicated bays for long-distance travel, and parks for intra-city transport like taxis and buses. Critically, all existing motor parks in Umuahia will be relocated here, finally bringing order to our city’s transport ecosystem.”
The Commissioner revealed significant progress on the rail integration, a component that elevates the project from a bus park to a regional transit nexus. “We have secured approval from the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC),” Ukaegbu confirmed. “Following productive discussions with the NRC Managing Director, Dr. Kayode Opeifa, the design for relocating the railway station adjacent to the terminal is nearly complete. This physical integration is what creates a genuine interchange.”
Ukaegbu also outlined the user-centric features embedded in the design, including secure waiting areas, commercial spaces, and plans for 24-hour operation—a rarity in the region that will cater to late-night and early-morning travelers. He confirmed that a sister project is underway in the commercial city of Aba, expected for completion by May, indicating a statewide transport modernization strategy.
Governor Otti concluded by urging public patience and confidence. “I am pleased with both the standard and the momentum. I urge our residents to look forward to a facility that will not only meet but exceed expectations. This terminal will redefine transport infrastructure in Abia, reducing travel stress, boosting economic activity around the hub, and presenting a new, modern face for our capital city.”
The Umuahia Central Bus Terminal, therefore, stands as a tangible symbol of a broader governance philosophy—one that prioritizes strategic, long-term infrastructure over quick fixes, aiming to fundamentally reshape the daily experience of Abia’s citizens. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Maureen Ojinaka/Maureen Atuonwu
