ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State is set for a major transformation of its public transportation system following the approval by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of the acquisition of 50 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses, the introduction of electric vehicles and the construction of an ultra-modern mega bus terminal in Asaba.
The approvals, granted at the State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting presided over by Governor Oborevwori, form part of a broader strategy to modernise the state’s transport infrastructure, promote cleaner energy and provide residents with a safer, more efficient and affordable mass transit system.
Briefing journalists after the meeting at Government House, Asaba, the Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Onoriode Agofure, said the decisions were informed by the outcome of a comprehensive transportation study conducted across major urban centres in the state.
According to him, the survey covered Asaba, Warri, Ughelli, Agbor, Sapele, Abraka and Oleh, and provided government with critical data on commuting patterns and the growing demand for an improved public transport network.
The commissioner disclosed that the study showed that more than 19,000 commuters move across the state’s major cities daily, with about 80 per cent depending on public transportation, while only 20 per cent rely on private vehicles.
He said the findings reinforced the need for government intervention to strengthen the public transport system in order to meet the mobility needs of the majority of residents.
Agofure described transportation as a critical driver of economic growth, noting that efficient movement of people and goods is fundamental to commerce, education, healthcare and other productive activities.
He said Governor Oborevwori recognises transportation as one of the pillars of sustainable development, adding that the lessons of the COVID-19 pandemic underscored the indispensable role of mobility in keeping economies functional.
“The governor understands that transportation is not merely about moving people from one place to another; it is the engine that drives economic and social activities. Without efficient transportation, businesses suffer, workers cannot get to their jobs, and students cannot access schools,” he said.
As part of the new initiative, the commissioner disclosed that the state would procure 50 CNG-powered buses to serve as the flagship fleet of the M.O.R.E. Mass Transit Scheme, an initiative designed to provide affordable, reliable and environmentally sustainable transportation for residents.
He explained that the adoption of CNG technology aligns with the Federal Government’s clean energy policy and is expected to reduce operational costs while lowering carbon emissions.
In another significant step towards green transportation, the Executive Council approved the acquisition of electric vehicles, reflecting the administration’s commitment to embracing emerging technologies that promote environmental sustainability and energy efficiency.
Agofure further announced that EXCO approved the construction of a state-of-the-art mega bus terminal in Asaba, which will serve as the operational headquarters of the state’s mass transit system.
According to him, the facility is expected to decongest the busy Koka Junction corridor by relocating the numerous roadside and informal motor parks currently operating in the area to a purpose-built terminal.
He said the project would not only improve traffic flow but also enhance safety, orderliness and the aesthetic appeal of the state capital.
The commissioner disclosed that the government has already acquired the land required for the project and that preliminary processes for construction are underway.
“When completed, all existing mushroom parks, including those operated by private transport operators, will be relocated to the new terminal to ensure a more organised and efficient transport system,” he said.
Agofure also revealed that plans are underway to develop a similar mega bus terminal in Warri, adding that the Federal Government has already approved the project following the intervention of Governor Oborevwori.
He noted that the transport initiatives form part of the administration’s broader vision of building an integrated, modern and sustainable transportation network capable of supporting economic growth, improving urban mobility and enhancing the quality of life of residents across Delta State.
The latest approvals further underscore the Oborevwori administration’s determination to reposition Delta’s transport sector through strategic investments in modern infrastructure, cleaner energy technologies and efficient mass transit systems in line with its M.O.R.E. Agenda.
