The Abia State Government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring a smooth and inclusive transition for transport operators as it begins the phased relocation of commercial transport activities to the newly established Nnenna Otti Central Bus Terminal in Umuahia.
The government said concerns raised by some transport operators are being addressed through sustained engagement with stakeholders to ensure that no group is unfairly disadvantaged by the reform.
The assurance was given by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, during a media briefing on the outcome of the State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting held at the Government House, Umuahia, and presided over by Governor Alex Otti.
Kanu, who briefed journalists alongside the Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu; Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Ngozi Felix; and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma, said the relocation exercise followed extensive consultations with transport unions and operators.
According to him, operations have already commenced at the terminal, with informal transport operators and unions among the first groups to move into the facility.
He acknowledged that some operators had expressed reservations about the relocation but attributed the concerns to the natural resistance that often accompanies major policy changes.
"There have been engagements with stakeholders, and government is addressing the issues raised. The relocation is proceeding according to schedule, and the concerns of operators will be resolved," he said.
Kanu explained that the exercise is being implemented in stages. The first phase covers the Abia Green Shuttle service, the second involves informal transport operators, while the final phase will accommodate formal transport companies.
Providing further insight into the initiative, the Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, said the objective was not to deprive anyone of their livelihood but to create a more efficient, orderly and secure transport system.
He disclosed that transport unions had been invited to nominate representatives who would work within the terminal and participate in its operations.
Ukaegbu said the facility operates a transparent loading system based on the order of arrival rather than union affiliation, adding that the majority of operators had already embraced the new arrangement.
He noted that the terminal was equipped with modern facilities designed to improve the experience of both drivers and passengers, including an air-conditioned drivers' lounge and comfortable waiting areas.
According to him, the project represents a major step towards modernising transportation in the state and improving service delivery.
Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, said the centralisation of transport services would help address traffic congestion and security concerns associated with multiple loading points across the city.
He added that operators would benefit from lower operational costs and improved business opportunities under the new system.
Meanwhile, the Abia State Government has moved to clarify public misconceptions surrounding the recently enacted Abia State Senior Citizens' Law No. 4 of 2025.
The Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Ngozi Felix, explained that the law does not provide for monthly stipends or salaries for senior citizens as widely speculated in some quarters.
She said the legislation defines senior citizens as persons aged 60 years and above and seeks to improve their welfare through access to healthcare services and social support programmes.
"The law is not designed to provide salaries for elderly persons. Rather, it seeks to ensure that senior citizens benefit from healthcare services and government interventions aimed at improving their quality of life," she said.
Felix urged residents to familiarise themselves with the actual provisions of the law and avoid misinterpreting its objectives.
She maintained that the legislation reflects the state's commitment to protecting the welfare and dignity of older citizens through targeted support programmes and social protection measures.
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