UMUAHIA – Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has officially launched the first batch of 20 Abia Green Shuttle Electric Buses for public transportation under the State Mass Transit Scheme, marking a historic milestone in Nigeria’s transport sector.
Commissioning the buses at the Ochendo International Conference Centre, Ogurube Layout, Umuahia, Governor Otti said the initiative is part of his administration’s deliberate efforts to reduce carbon emissions, promote clean energy, and align Abia State with global climate change and sustainability goals.
The Governor announced that the electric buses would begin immediate operations, offering free rides to commuters from today until January, to enable residents familiarise themselves with the new mass transit system. He disclosed that the buses would ply major routes across the state, including Umuahia, Aba, Umunneochi, Ohafia and Ukwa Local Government Areas.
Governor Otti explained that the project was initially conceived as a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) bus scheme but was upgraded to electric vehicles in response to the global transition towards net-zero emissions. According to him, the decision reflects Abia State’s commitment to innovation, environmental responsibility and long-term economic sustainability.
He further revealed that the procurement process faced challenges, particularly the need to redesign the buses to ensure full compliance with the needs of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs). The Governor appealed to the public to always give special consideration to persons living with disabilities while boarding the buses.
Governor Otti also announced plans to install public electric charging stations across Aba, Umuahia and other parts of the state. He warned that misconduct would not be tolerated, noting that the buses are equipped with onboard surveillance cameras to ensure safety and accountability. He encouraged residents to embrace electric vehicles, describing them as a cheaper and more sustainable long-term transportation option.
In her remarks, the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who commissioned the buses, described the initiative as extraordinary and timely, especially in the face of the global fight against pollution and climate change.
She congratulated Governor Otti and his team for their visionary leadership, noting that the project would contribute significantly to cleaner air and healthier cities. She also urged African countries to continue playing active roles in promoting environmental sustainability.
Speaking earlier, the President and Chief Executive Officer of Coscharis Group, Dr. Cosmos Maduka, said Abia State has provided national leadership by becoming the first state in Nigeria to officially launch electric buses for public transportation. He expressed hope that other states would follow Abia’s example.
Dr. Maduka disclosed that his company initially proposed CNG buses but commended Governor Otti’s insistence on electric vehicles, adding that the buses are fully air-conditioned, equipped with surveillance cameras and onboard charging ports, and designed to serve all social classes.
The Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, described the launch as a historic milestone in Abia State’s transport evolution. He attributed the success of the project to Governor Otti’s sterling leadership and unwavering resolve to reposition the state as a hub of innovation, sustainability and inclusive development.
He noted that beyond environmental benefits, the electric buses would deliver long-term economic gains, including job creation and skills development.
Dr. Ukaegbu assured residents that the Ministry of Transport would continue to expand the initiative and work closely with transport unions and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth and successful transition.
The commissioning ceremony featured a test ride around Umuahia, led by Governor Otti, signalling the official commencement of the Abia Green Shuttle Electric Bus Services.
Dignitaries at the event included Senator Darlington Nwokocha, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, members of the State Executive Council, political appointees and other distinguished guests.
