Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has commissioned 20 new electric buses to boost the state’s public transportation system, expanding the fleet of the Abia Green Shuttle initiative.
The commissioning ceremony, held at the Nnenna Oti Bus Terminal in Umuahia, marks the fulfilment of the governor’s pledge to add more electric buses to the scheme following the launch of the first set of 20 buses on December 23, 2025.
Otti said the expansion was part of his administration’s efforts to transform transportation into a major driver of economic growth, while promoting a cleaner and more efficient mobility system across the state.
According to him, the new electric buses are designed with increased cargo capacity and accessibility features for persons with disabilities, ensuring a more inclusive transport system that guarantees dignity and convenience for all residents.
The governor also announced stricter enforcement of traffic regulations, warning against reckless driving, traffic light violations and vehicle overloading.
He disclosed that the Abia State Road Traffic and Safety Management Agency (ARTSMA), alongside the Harmonised Task Force, would extend their operations until 10pm daily, including weekends, as part of measures to protect lives and property.
Otti commended the Interagency Transport Team, led by Chinenye Mba Uzoukwu, for its commitment to the success of the transport initiative, stressing that proper management of government assets and staff welfare remained priorities of his administration.
He warned that any act of sabotage or vandalism against the state’s transport assets would be thoroughly investigated, with offenders prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The governor also urged residents to fulfil their tax obligations, saying increased civic responsibility would help the government bridge development gaps and build a modern transport system aligned with the vision of a “New Abia.”