Abia State Government says it will begin full operations at its newly constructed mega transport terminal in Umuahia within the next two weeks, as part of efforts to modernise the state’s transport system and centralise commuter services.
The state Commissioner for Transport, Dr Chimezie Ukaegbu, disclosed this on Thursday during a stakeholders’ engagement with transport operators, where he said the facility would serve as a unified hub for all transport activities in the state.
“You know, the essence of this meeting is for us to collaborate with the transport operators,” the commissioner stated.
He said the engagements were aimed at ensuring operators align with the government’s relocation plan and operational timeline for the terminal.
Ukaegbu described the project as a major infrastructure milestone for Abia State, noting that it would transform how transport services are coordinated.
“The siting of this gigantic project is one of the biggest things that has happened to Abia State. This place is going to be a one-stop transport hub where, wherever you want to travel, you just come here and access every mode of transportation. We are introducing a centralised parking system, and the facility is fully furnished,” he added.
He assured transport operators of fairness in the transition process, saying the government was committed to ensuring inclusivity.
“We are very sure that there will be fair dealings and that everybody will be happy at the end of the day. Our goal is to provide the best services for the people,” he said.
Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Transportation, Prof Obioma Nwogbe, said the engagement was the final consultation before the commencement of operations.
“The reason for this meeting is to have the final stakeholders’ engagement with transport unions, formal and informal operators, to harmonise and synergise on how the activities of this mega terminal will be kicked off,” he said.
He added that operations would begin “on or before next week or within the next two weeks,” noting that discussions had been “very successful, with fruitful deliberations.”
Nwogbe said operators had expressed satisfaction with the project, describing it as a rare facility in the Southeast.
“They are very happy with the handiwork of His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti. In fact, they have extended their appreciation to him, noting that this edifice is one of its kind in the entire Southeast. There is no facility like this,” he said.
He said the terminal would operate with structured systems similar to an airport, with strict order, safety, and information management.
The new terminal is expected to ease travel, improve urban mobility, and serve as a centralised transport hub for passengers in Abia State.
SOURCE: PUNCH
