Gov Otti Tours Umuahia Central Bus Terminal, Says Project Nearing Completion

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, on Wednesday, January 7, led a fresh inspection of the Umuahia Central Bus Terminal construction site, expressing satisfaction with the pace and quality of work on the massive project.

Speaking to journalists during the visit, Governor Otti highlighted the strategic thinking behind the terminal, noting that centralising passenger movement remains key to rebuilding Umuahia into a functional and modern capital city.

According to him, the concept is not new, but widely adopted in developed cities around the world.

“It is nothing new; it has been done elsewhere. When you go to the UK, Paddington Terminal ensures convergence of rail and other means of transportation — and you have shopping plaza, cinema, hotel, everything located in one place,” Otti said.

Otti revealed that his administration is working to eliminate the multiple scattered motor parks within Umuahia and integrate them into a single, well-planned transport hub.

He said the project, already at an advanced stage, is on track to be close to full completion by the end of January.

“The work is going on very well, and the consultants are up to the task. I am glad with the level and quality of progress. Even if they need more time, I’ll give it, because it’s better done right the first time,” the Governor added.

Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, echoed the Governor’s position, describing the terminal as a one-stop mobility centre for all categories of travellers.

He revealed that the facility is designed to integrate rail services, buses, and private transport systems and that a similar mega terminal is under construction in Aba, with delivery targeted for May 2026.

Otti’s inspection tour also extended to road reconstruction sites across Umuahia, including Cooperatives and the Ahiaeke-Okwuta-Bende road corridor. At Ahiaeke, he engaged engineers from Craneburg Construction on needed design adjustments to address erosion concerns near a valley along the road. The Governor tasked the company with delivering the project before the rainy season.

In a brief interaction at one of the stops, Otti also checked in on operations of the Abia Electric Bus scheme, which has continued to offer free rides to residents and visitors since its launch last December.

The Governor was accompanied on the tour by Hon. Obi Aguocha, member representing Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency; the General Manager of the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA), Kingsley Agomuo; and other senior officials.