Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has officially commissioned the newly completed Nnenna Oti Bus Terminal in Umuahia, describing the project as a major milestone in the state’s drive toward building a modern, efficient, and sustainable transportation system.

The governor announced the commissioning of the landmark transport facility in a statement released after the event, noting that the terminal is now fully ready for public use.

According to Otti, the project represents a bold step in transforming transportation infrastructure in Abia State and reflects his administration’s commitment to raising development standards across the state.

The newly commissioned terminal, located in Umuahia, is designed as a multimodal transport hub capable of accommodating more than 340 buses at the same time. The facility is also integrated into the state’s growing electric transportation network and supported by sustainable infrastructure.

Governor Otti disclosed that the bus terminal was named after Prof. Nnenna Nnennaya-Oti, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Returning Officer during the 2023 Abia governorship election, in recognition of her courage, integrity, and commitment to democratic values.

Prof. Nnenna Oti became widely celebrated across Nigeria following her role in the 2023 election, where she resisted pressure and intimidation while announcing the election results.

The governor said the naming of the terminal after the professor goes beyond celebrating one individual, explaining that it symbolises honour for all Nigerians who defended democracy during the election period.

“The facility is named in honour of Prof. Nnenna Nnennaya-Oti, the courageous INEC Returning Officer in the 2023 governorship election, whose integrity and patriotism remind us that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary results by simply standing for the truth,” Otti stated.

He further noted that the recognition also serves as a tribute to electoral officials, security operatives, political party agents, and citizens who resisted intimidation and ensured that democratic values prevailed.

According to the governor, the project demonstrates Abia State’s readiness to embrace modern urban transportation systems that prioritise safety, environmental sustainability, and operational efficiency.

He revealed that 20 electric buses are already operating within the state, while additional buses are expected to arrive in the coming weeks as part of the government’s broader transport reform agenda.

The governor added that the bus terminal was designed with independent power and water systems to guarantee uninterrupted services and efficient day-to-day operations.

Otti explained that his administration was determined to move beyond what he described as the era of “small ambitions,” insisting that Abia State must now pursue projects capable of transforming the economy and improving the quality of life for residents.

Speaking during his address titled “Raising the Bar,” the governor said his administration refuses to accept limitations or operate within expectations that underestimate the capacity and potential of the state.

“We have moved beyond the era of small ambitions. We refuse to be boxed into margins that underestimate our strength. This principle underpins all our undertakings,” he said.

The governor commended the contractors handling the project, Planet Projects Limited, for successfully delivering the transport facility to the expected standard.

He also praised members of his administration who played significant roles in the execution of the project, including the Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, and the Senior Special Assistant on Transport, Dr. Obioma Nwaogbe.

According to Otti, their dedication and commitment were instrumental in turning the government’s transport vision into reality.

The governor further called on residents of Umuahia and members of the host community to take ownership of the facility by protecting it from vandalism and ensuring that the environment remains clean and conducive.

“This terminal belongs to you, and its success depends on your care,” he told residents.

He urged members of the public to see the project as a collective investment designed to improve transportation, stimulate economic activities, and enhance the image of the state.

Governor Otti also used the occasion to appeal to Abians to support the government’s development agenda by paying their taxes regularly.

According to him, sustainable development requires collective responsibility and consistent public support.

He stressed that tax payments remain essential for financing infrastructure projects and delivering the quality of governance expected by the people.

“Development cannot be sustained without collective responsibility, and every naira contributed helps us deliver the future our people deserve,” the governor stated.

The commissioning of the Nnenna Oti Bus Terminal is expected to significantly improve public transportation within Umuahia and surrounding areas while positioning Abia State as one of the emerging leaders in sustainable transportation infrastructure in Nigeria.

The project also highlights the growing adoption of electric transportation systems by state governments seeking to modernise urban mobility and reduce environmental pollution.

For many residents and observers, the naming of the terminal after Prof. Nnenna Oti serves not only as recognition of personal courage but also as a broader reminder of the importance of integrity, accountability, and democratic responsibility in Nigeria’s public life.