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From Idu Jude, Abuja
The Abia State government is taking bold steps to modernise its transport sector with the planned introduction of electric vehicles (EVs), aimed at achieving zero emissions and driving a clean, green economy.
The Commissioner for Transportation, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, revealed this in Abuja yesterday during the 2025 National Transport Conference organised by the Chartered Institute of Transport Administration (CIOTA).
He said the state is making heavy investments in transportation because it remains the backbone of economic growth, supporting trade, business, and industrial activity.
“What the governor is doing is to ensure that we have a strong support system. Abia is keying into modern urban mass transport, and by next month, we’ll roll out our electric vehicle system,” Dr. Ukaegbu said.
He explained that the state deliberately opted for EVs instead of compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles due to environmental and infrastructural constraints.
“CNG reduces emissions by just 38 percent, but electric vehicles are at zero emissions. Besides, CNG requires a complex network, a mother station, sub-stations, and conversion centers, which makes it costly and cumbersome. EVs only need charging stations”, he said.
Dr. Ukaegbu added that Abia’s infrastructure drive is part of Governor Alex Otti’s broader vision for sustainable development and private sector growth.
“Our roads and infrastructure are fantastic because the governor is intentional about development. We’re a pro-business government, if goods can’t move, production loses value. That’s why transport is key,” he emphasised.
He also disclosed that the government is setting up modern bus terminals across the state, designed as one-stop transport hubs that connect road, rail, and other intermodal systems.
“It will be a place where anyone can access all modes of transport, it’s a model different from what others have done,” he said.
The commissioner further revealed that new transport regulations are being put in place to reduce accidents, boost revenue, and improve safety, while keeping services affordable.
“We’re not out to burden citizens. The goal is to make movement easier and attract investors because efficient transport opens up cities and supports economic growth,” he said.
