The Abia State Government (ABSG) has approved the expansion of its mass transit initiative by increasing the number of electric buses to be procured from 20 to 40, in a bold move to revolutionize transportation across the state.
This major development was one of the key highlights from the Abia State Executive Council meeting held on Monday at the Government House, Umuahia.
Addressing journalists, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, revealed that the number of electric charging stations would also be doubled, rising from 10 to 20, in anticipation of the buses' deployment.
Electric Bus Rollout Plan
Prince Kanu noted that the first 20 electric buses are scheduled to arrive in November 2025, with 12 designated for Aba and 8 for Umuahia. The additional 20 buses will cover other areas, including the Ohafia–Bende axis.
> “The arrival of these buses will undoubtedly strengthen the ongoing revolutionary transformation of the state’s transport sector,” Kanu said.
Construction is underway on state-of-the-art bus terminals in Aba and Umuahia, alongside junction improvements and the installation of modern bus shelters on key routes.
1,200 Youths Enrolled in Future Skills Training
The government is also making strides in youth empowerment. In collaboration with Ethnocentriq Ltd, the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development has enrolled 1,200 Abia youths in the second phase of the Fashion Future Skills Acquisition Programme, focused on garment and leather production.
The programme has attracted $3 million in sponsorship funding from the MasterCard Foundation, reflecting growing international confidence in the administration of Governor Alex Otti, OFR.
> “This huge injection of sponsorship funds into the Abia State economy is due to the sterling governance credentials of Governor Otti,” the Commissioner added.
Creative Talent Hunt & Youth Day Celebrations
A new initiative—the Abia State Creative Talent Hunt—has also been launched. It aims to identify and empower young talents in music and innovation, through a joint effort between the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy.
As part of the forthcoming Youth Day Celebration (August 6–12, 2025), the state is planning a series of activities including a Youth Assembly, Symposium, and Interstate Youth Exchange Visits.
Inclusive Transport for Physically Challenged Athletes
In a landmark move for inclusivity, the ABSG has also procured a wheelchair-accessible bus for the transportation of physically challenged athletes. The bus will be deployed during the upcoming International Sports Championship, slated for September 3 to October 12, 2025.
The Commissioner also disclosed that the victorious Abia Falcons, who recently returned to their clubs in Europe, will be honored by Governor Otti later this year.
Press Briefing Attendees
The briefing was attended by:
Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development
Commissioner for Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information, Sir Chris Onwuegbu
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ctz. Ukoha Njoku Ukoha
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📍 Source:
Government House Umuahia – E-signed by Divine Nwankwo, HOD (Information)
🗓️ Date: August 4, 2025
📰 Published by: Stone Reporters News
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