Governor Otti Commissions Additional 20 Electric Buses, Extends ARTSMA Operational Hours to 10Pm

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, on Thursday, August 6, 2026, commissioned and added 20 additional electric buses to the Green Shuttle fleets and announced the extension of operational hours of the Abia State Road Traffic and Safety Management Agency [ARTSMA] and other traffic enforcement authorities to 10pm daily, including weekends. The commissioning ceremony took place at the Nnenna Otti Bus Terminal, Umuahia.

Speaking at the event, Governor Otti described transportation as a critical driver of economic growth and social development. The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building a modern, environmentally friendly and efficient transportation system.

Governor Otti warned against acts of sabotage, vandalism and indiscipline, capable of undermining the transport system, stressing that his administration would not tolerate criminality or reckless conduct on the roads.

“No one has the right to violate traffic regulations or endanger the lives and property of others. Beating traffic lights, driving against traffic, overloading and reckless parking will attract severe sanctions,” Gov. Otti warned.

To ensure strict compliance, the Governor announced the establishment of an independent monitoring team to evaluate enforcement activities and recommend further actions where necessary.

The State Chief Executive charged the inter-agency transport management team to remain committed to protecting government transport assets, maintaining the buses and terminals, prioritising staff welfare, and ensuring that anyone found sabotaging public infrastructure is prosecuted.

“Whoever attempts to drag us back to the darkness of the past will have a very difficult time. We are determined to close the gap between where we are and where we want to be,” Gov. Otti affirmed.

Governor Otti recalled that the first fleet of electric buses was launched in December 2025, noting that the latest addition represents another significant milestone in closing the transportation gap in the State.

“Transportation is the oil that lubricates the wheels of prosperity. It moves people, drives commerce and expands the frontiers of opportunity.

“The progress of any civilisation ultimately depends on how its transport system evolves to meet the realities of the time,” the Governor stated.

The Governor explained that the decision to adopt electric vehicles was informed by the need to provide cost-effective transportation, protect the environment, and position Abia ahead of emerging global transportation trends driven by clean energy and technological innovation.

He said that the newly commissioned buses are equipped with larger cargo compartments and facilities for persons living with disabilities, assuring that it offers improved service delivery while extending affordable, safe and reliable transportation to more destinations within and outside Abia State.

The Governor emphasized that the remarkable transformation witnessed in the State’s public transport sector over the past seven months has introduced orderly queues, technology-driven payment systems, and dependable services comparable to global standards.

While appealing to residents to fulfill their tax obligations, Governor Otti noted that sustainable development depends on citizens partnering with government through responsible tax compliance. He further assured transport operators that government remains open to constructive dialogue, following reports of concerns from some informal transport operators.

“If you have genuine concerns, communicate with us. This administration is responsible enough to listen and address legitimate challenges,” Gov. Otti assured.

Earlier in his address, the Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Isaac Ukaegbu, described the event as a celebration of visionary leadership and transformational governance. He noted that Governor Otti’s investments have repositioned public transportation in Abia through innovation, clean energy and people-centred policies.

Dr. Ukaegbu said the additional 20 electric buses would significantly expand intra-city and inter-city operations, providing affordable, safe and comfortable transportation for workers, students, families and other commuters across the State. He added that beyond improving mobility, the initiative demonstrates government’s commitment to sustainable development through investment in infrastructure, maintenance systems and route planning, while also promoting cleaner air through zero-emission transportation.

The Commissioner commended the Governor for building a future-oriented transport system and assured that the buses would be professionally managed and properly maintained for the benefit of the people. He also urged residents to protect public assets and encouraged drivers and operators to uphold professionalism, discipline and strict compliance with road safety regulations.

The event attracted dignitaries from all walks of life.

Ctz. UKOHA, NJOKU UKOHA
Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Governor of Abia State.