The Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has commended the Abia State Government for introducing electric buses to combat pollution and climate change.
Okonjo-Iweala gave the commendation on Monday during the launch of the first phase of the Abia Green Shuttle Electric Bus Service, involving 20 electric buses, at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia.
She described the initiative as bold and forward-looking, noting that climate change and environmental pollution remain 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 former Minister of Finance praised the Abia State Government and other stakeholders for driving the initiative, saying it would help improve air quality and environmental health in the state.
She expressed optimism that the project would pave the way for broader environmentally friendly transport reforms in Abia and urged the state to sustain the momentum in climate-smart development.
In his remarks, Gov. Alex Otti of Abia said the introduction of electric buses was a strategic step towards net-zero emissions and sustainable urban transportation.
Otti said the initiative marked a transition from Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses to fully electric vehicles in line with global climate targets.
While acknowledging that CNG buses are cleaner than conventional fuel-powered vehicles, he said they still emit pollutants, making electric buses a more sustainable long-term solution.
The governor 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. Not all 20 buses will be on the road at the same time, but residents will see a sizable number.
“As we operate them, we will learn and make necessary adjustments. I am pleased to announce that all 20 electric buses commissioned today are fully PWD-compliant,” he said.
Otti said the project initially faced logistical challenges due to delays in the delivery of charging stations following a maritime accident, but the state adopted alternative solutions.
He said charging stations were already operational in Umuahia, with additional installations planned for Aba, Ohafia and other parts of the state.
According to him, the buses would begin scheduled operations from Tuesday, with gradual deployment to allow system testing and improvements.
The governor said the buses could travel between 400 and 450 kilometers on a full charge, depending on operating conditions.
He announced that the electric buses would operate free of charge for residents from Tuesday until January to familiarize commuters with the new transport system.
Otti added that surveillance cameras had been installed in the buses to ensure safety and order, warning that any misconduct would attract prosecution.
He said Abia had recently emerged as the state with the lowest public transportation costs in Nigeria, adding that the electric buses would further reduce transport expenses.
The governor expressed appreciation to the commissioners for transport and power, as well as technical partners, for working tirelessly to deliver the project.
He urged residents to maintain orderly conduct at bus stations and give priority to persons living with disabilities.
Speaking earlier, the President of Coscharis Group, Dr Cosmos Maduka, said Abia had provided national leadership by becoming Nigeria’s first state to officially launch electric buses for public transportation.
Maduka said the initiative placed Abia at the forefront of clean transport innovation and expressed confidence that other states would soon follow suit.
He disclosed that Coscharis initially proposed CNG buses but commended the governor for insisting on fully electric vehicles.
According to him, the governor maintained that electrification was non-negotiable, turning the vision into reality.
Maduka highlighted features of the buses, including air-conditioning, surveillance cameras and onboard charging ports, saying the service was designed to cater for residents across all social classes.
He added that the buses would reduce reliance on tricycles and motorcycles in urban centres while providing safer and more comfortable transport.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Transport, Mr Chimezie Ukaegbu, described the launch as a historic milestone in Abia’s transport development.
Ukaegbu attributed the achievement to Gov. Otti’s leadership and commitment to 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 the state government’s commitment to expanding the scheme in collaboration with transport unions and other stakeholders.
The buses are expected to operate on major routes across the state, including Umuahia, Aba, Umunneochi, Ohafia and Ukwa West.
The event also featured a test ride around Umuahia to mark the official commencement of the Abia Green Shuttle Electric Bus Service.
