Abia State has taken a bold step toward sustainable transportation as the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, officially commissioned the first batch of 20 electric buses introduced by Governor Alex Otti. The landmark event took place at the International Conference Centre (ICC), Umuahia, marking a major milestone in the state’s green mobility agenda.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Governor Otti described the initiative as a defining moment in Abia’s journey toward the future. He explained that while the state initially considered compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, his administration deliberately chose electric vehicles to align with global targets for zero emissions.
According to the Governor, although CNG buses are cleaner than traditional fuel-powered vehicles, they still emit gases. “We decided to leapfrog to electric buses because the world is moving toward zero emission, and Abia must not be left behind,” he said.
Governor Otti also revealed that the 20 electric buses were specially ordered to be compliant with the needs of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), reinforcing his administration’s commitment to inclusivity. He further disclosed that although the charging stations meant to accompany the buses could not arrive due to a maritime accident, the state government swiftly installed alternative charging facilities at the ICC, Umuahia.
He assured residents that additional charging stations would soon be installed in Aba, Ohafia, and other strategic locations across the state. These facilities, he noted, would also be accessible to private electric vehicle owners.
The Governor announced that the buses, which can travel between 400 and 450 kilometres on a single charge, would significantly reduce transportation costs in the state. He recalled that Abia recently emerged as one of the most affordable states for public transportation in Nigeria, adding that the introduction of electric buses would further lower fares.
As part of the rollout, Governor Otti declared that the electric buses would operate free of charge from commencement until sometime in January. The buses will run on scheduled routes in the morning, afternoon, and evening, operating on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to persons living with disabilities.
Commissioning the buses, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala praised Governor Otti for his visionary leadership and commitment to tackling climate change. She described the initiative as a welcome development, noting that pollution and climate change remain major global challenges. According to her, Abia State’s adoption of electric buses is an extraordinary step that should inspire similar actions across Nigeria.
The Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, also commended the Governor, stating that the project reflects his forward-thinking agenda to reposition Abia as a centre of innovation, sustainability, and inclusive development. He emphasized that the electric buses represent a deliberate shift from fossil fuels to cleaner energy solutions that reduce carbon emissions, curb noise pollution, and promote healthier urban environments.
Earlier, the founder and President of Coscharis Group, manufacturers of the electric buses, Dr. Cosmas Maduka, disclosed that Abia State is the first in Nigeria to officially launch electric buses. He noted that despite efforts to persuade the Governor to adopt CNG buses, Governor Otti insisted on electric vehicles, a decision he described as visionary.
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Dr. Maduka further highlighted the advanced features of the buses, including air conditioning, enhanced security systems, and real-time monitoring, stressing that the buses are designed to offer quality service regardless of social status.
The historic launch was attended by senior government officials, stakeholders, and residents of Abia State, underscoring widespread support for the state’s transition to eco-friendly transportation.