Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has commissioned the newly built 340-capacity Umuahia Central Bus Terminal in the state capital, describing it as a reflection of his administration’s drive for world-class infrastructure, economic development, improved transportation, and renewed public confidence in governance.

During the commissioning, Governor Otti named the terminal after Professor Nnenna Oti, former Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology Owerri, Imo State, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Returning Officer for the 2023 governorship election in Abia State, who declared him governor-elect.

He said the decision was in recognition of her courage, integrity, and commitment to truth during the electoral process.

“Professor Nnenna Oti stood firmly on the side of truth at a critical moment in our state’s history, doing the right thing despite enormous pressure. She restored public confidence in the electoral process and became a symbol of integrity for future generations,” he said.

Amid applause, Professor Oti reaffirmed her stance, stressing that she acted in fulfilment of her duty to ensure that the will of the people prevailed.

“I stood, and I still stand, that votes must count and that the wish of the people must prevail,” she said.

Governor Otti noted that the terminal forms part of a broader transport reform agenda aimed at building an organised, safe, and efficient mobility system across the state. He added that following the delivery of hundreds of kilometres of roads, his administration has expanded its focus to modern transport infrastructure, including bus terminals, transport shelters, traffic management systems, and electric buses.

He also paid tribute to the late Commissioner for Transport, Comrade Sunny Onwuma, who initiated the project, describing his passing as painful and unfortunate.

According to the governor, the terminal was designed with emphasis on accessibility, environmental sustainability, commuter comfort, and inclusivity for persons living with disabilities.

“The days of playing small are over in Abia State. What we are building is a modern transport ecosystem that supports commerce, mobility, safety, and economic prosperity,” he said.

He disclosed that the state currently operates 20 electric buses for intra- and inter-city transport, with another 20 expected, alongside 30 additional units under construction. He added that similar transport infrastructure projects are ongoing in Aba, including bus terminals, shelters, and junction upgrades aimed at improving traffic flow and commuter experience.

The governor urged residents to support his administration through prompt tax payments, stressing that taxation remains critical to sustainable development and civic responsibility.

The Deputy Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Austin Nmeregini, commended the governor for what he described as intentional, people-focused governance, noting that the ongoing infrastructural transformation across the state has restored dignity and confidence in governance.

The Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Isaac Ukaegbu, described the terminal as a major milestone in the state’s transformation agenda, saying it represents modernisation, orderliness, economic growth, and safer transport operations.

He said the facility would significantly ease traffic congestion in Umuahia, enhance passenger safety and comfort, create employment opportunities, and boost internally generated revenue.

The Managing Director of Planet Projects, Mr. Biodun Otunola, described the terminal as the best transport facility his company has delivered in Nigeria. He noted that Governor Otti insisted on world-class standards and delayed commissioning until every component met strict quality benchmarks.

He added that the facility features over 62 air conditioners, more than 30 public conveniences, 22 shops, commercial spaces, a restaurant, and a motel, and forms part of a broader transport reform programme that has already delivered traffic lights, bus stations, road signage, and street lighting across Umuahia.

Dignitaries at the event included the governor’s wife, Priscilla Otti; Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu; members of the National and State Houses of Assembly; top government officials; traditional rulers; members of the clergy; and transport union leaders.