The Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has commended the Abia Government for introducing electric buses to tackle pollution and climate change.
Okonjo-Iweala gave the commendation on Monday during the launch of the first phase of Abia Green Shuttle Electric Bus Service with 20 electric buses at the International Conference Center, Umuahia.
She described the initiative as a bold and forward-looking step, noting that climate change and environmental pollution remained among the world’s most pressing challenges.
According to her, although Africa contributes only about three per cent of global carbon emissions, the continent must still play its part in promoting a cleaner and more sustainable environment.
The WTO boss said Abia’s decision to deploy electric buses demonstrated leadership and commitment to global climate responsibility.
The onetime Finance Minister praised Abia Government and other stakeholders for driving the initiative, which she said, would help improve air quality in the state.
Okonjo-Iweala expressed optimism that the project would mark the beginning of broader environmentally friendly transport reforms in Abia.
She congratulated the state government on the achievement and urged it to sustain the momentum in climate-smart development initiatives.
In his speech, Gov. Alex Otti of Abia described the introduction of electric buses in the state as a strategic move towards net-zero emissions and sustainable urban transportation.
Otti said that the initiative marked a significant transition from the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses to fully electric vehicles in line with global climate targets.
He said that although CNG buses were cleaner, they still produced emissions, prompting the state to adopt electric buses as a long-term solution.
Otti explained that the procurement process was reviewed to ensure the buses were compliant with the needs of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
“We are starting small so maybe not all the 20 will be on the road at the same time but at least you will see a sizable number.
“And as we learn, as we use them, we learn and correct, so we are not going to promise you heaven on earth.
“I am pleased to announce that all 20 electric buses commissioned today are fully PWD-compliant,” he said.
Otti said that the project faced initial logistical challenges following delays in the delivery of charging stations due to a maritime accident, but the state devised alternative solutions.
He said that the charging stations were already operational in Umuahia, with additional installations planned for Aba, Ohafia and other parts of the state.
Otti said that the buses would begin scheduled operations from Tuesday, noting that deployment would be gradual to allow learning and system adjustments.
He said that the buses could travel between 400 kilometres and 450 kilometres on a full charge, depending on usage conditions.
The governor said that the electric buses would operate free of charge for residents from Tuesday until January to familiarise commuters with the new system.
He added that surveillance cameras had been installed in the buses to ensure safety and order, warning that misconduct would attract prosecution.
Otti said Abia recently emerged as the state with the lowest public transportation costs in Nigeria, adding that the electric buses would further reduce transport expenses.
He expressed appreciation to the state’s transport and power commissioners and technical partners for working round the clock to deliver the project.
The governor urged residents to maintain orderly conduct at bus stations and give priority to persons living with disabilities.
The President of Coscharis Group, Dr Cosmos Maduka, said that Abia had provided national leadership by becoming Nigeria’s first state to officially launch electric buses for public transportation.
Maduka said that the launch marked Abia as the first state to deploy electric buses, expressing confidence that other states would soon follow the initiative.
He disclosed that Coscharis initially proposed compressed natural gas buses but commended the governor for insisting on electric-powered vehicles.
Maduka said that the governor maintained that electrification was non-negotiable, noting that the project had moved from vision to reality.
He highlighted features of the buses, including air-conditioning, surveillance cameras and onboard charging ports, saying the service was designed for residents across social classes.
He predicted the buses would reduce dependence on tricycles and motorcycles in urban centres, assuring commuters of comfort under the Abia Green Shuttle Bus Service.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Transport, Mr Chimezie Ukaegbu, described the launch as a historic milestone in Abia’s transport evolution.
Ukaegbu attributed the achievement to Gov. Otti’s leadership and forward-thinking agenda to reposition the state for innovation, sustainability and inclusive development.
He said the electric bus programme would deliver environmental and long-term economic benefits, including job creation and skills development.
The commissioner assured residents of continued expansion of the scheme in collaboration with transport unions and stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that buses are expected to ply major routes in the State including Umuahia, Aba, Umunneochi, Ohafia, and Ukwa West.
NAN also reports that the event featured a test ride around the city of Umuahia to signal the official commencement of the Abia Green Shuttle Electric Bus Service.
