Green Revolution In Motion: Otti Doubles Electric Bus Fleet, Expands Charging Hubs Across Abia

The Abia State Government has significantly scaled up its commitment to eco-friendly transportation by doubling the number of electric buses slated for its mass transit programme—from 20 to 40—according to iReporter Online.

During a press briefing on the outcomes of this week’s Executive Council meeting at Government House, Umuahia, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, revealed that the number of charging stations has also been increased from 10 to 20 to accommodate the expanded fleet.

He noted that the first 20 electric buses are expected to arrive by November, with 12 set to operate in Aba and 8 in Umuahia.

According to iReporter Online, Kanu explained that the additional 20 buses will help serve other key routes, including the Ohafia–Bende axis. He added that a prototype bus would be available for inspection by the end of July, a move that reflects Governor Otti’s sweeping transformation agenda for the transport sector.

He further stated that work is ongoing on state-of-the-art bus terminals in Aba and Umuahia, as well as junction upgrades and new bus shelters along designated routes.

In addition to transport, the state is also prioritizing youth empowerment.

Prince Kanu disclosed that the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, in partnership with Ethnocentric Ltd., has onboarded 1,200 youths for the second phase of the Fashion Future Skills Acquisition Programme.

The initiative—focused on garment and leather craftsmanship—has already attracted over $3 million in funding from the MasterCard Foundation.

“This level of sponsorship,” he said, “is a direct result of the credibility and global perception of Governor Alex Otti’s leadership,” according to iReporter Online.

Furthermore, the Ministry is collaborating with the Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy to launch the Abia State Creative Talent Hunt—aimed at discovering and supporting young musical talents.

Preparations are also underway for this year’s Youth Day celebration from August 6 to 12, featuring activities such as a Youth Assembly, symposiums, and interstate exchange visits.

In a move to promote inclusivity in sports, the state has procured a wheelchair-accessible bus for physically challenged athletes participating in the upcoming International Sports Championship, scheduled between September 3 and October 12, 2025.

Kanu also announced that Governor Otti would later host Abia’s victorious Falconets, who have since returned to their European clubs.

”IREPORTER REPORTS”