Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, on Wednesday inaugurated the newly completed Umuahia Central Bus Terminal, describing the project as a major step in the administration’s urban renewal and transportation reform agenda aimed at transforming the state capital into a modern commercial hub.
The multimodal transport facility, located in the heart of Umuahia, was officially commissioned amid cheers from government officials, transport operators, traditional rulers, party supporters and residents who gathered to witness the event.
In a symbolic move that drew widespread applause, the governor announced that the terminal would be named after Professor Nnenna Nnannaya-Oti, the first female Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, in recognition of her role as the Independent National Electoral Commission returning officer during the 2023 governorship election in Abia State.
Otti said the decision to immortalise the academic was based on what he described as her courage, integrity and unwavering commitment to truth at a critical moment in the state’s political history.
“This terminal has been named after Professor Nnenna Nnannaya-Oti, the courageous INEC returning officer who demonstrated unflinching integrity in the discharge of her duties during a high-stakes election assignment here in Abia,” the governor declared.
The governor recalled the tense atmosphere that surrounded the collation of the 2023 governorship election results, noting that Professor Nnannaya-Oti stood firm against intimidation and pressure while carrying out her constitutional responsibilities.
According to him, her conduct during the exercise restored public confidence in the electoral process and served as an inspiration to Nigerians who believe in justice, accountability and democratic values.
“In 2023, through her courageous disposition of standing firmly by the truth, she reminded us that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary results by simply saying no,” Otti said.
He stressed that the honour was not meant for the professor alone but also represented recognition for every Nigerian who had refused to compromise the integrity of the electoral process despite pressure from powerful interests.
The governor further stated that the naming of the terminal symbolised the values of honesty, patriotism and public service, adding that societies could only progress when individuals chose integrity over personal gain.
Otti also acknowledged the contributions of electoral officials, security agencies and ordinary citizens who ensured that the 2023 election reflected the will of the people.
“This recognition extends beyond one individual. It is for all electoral officers, security personnel and citizens who stood on the side of truth and defended the sanctity of democracy,” he added.
Speaking on the newly inaugurated transport facility, the governor said the project was designed to improve transportation within Umuahia and create a more organised and efficient transit system for commuters and transport operators.
He explained that the modern terminal would help reduce traffic congestion, eliminate indiscriminate parking and improve safety and comfort for passengers travelling within and outside the state.
The governor noted that the facility forms part of broader infrastructural reforms being undertaken by his administration to reposition Abia as one of Nigeria’s leading investment and business destinations.
According to him, the terminal was built to meet modern transportation standards and would serve as a critical economic asset capable of boosting commercial activities and generating employment opportunities for residents.
Otti reiterated his administration’s commitment to delivering people-oriented projects, insisting that governance must translate into visible improvements in the lives of citizens.
He urged transport operators and residents to take ownership of the facility by ensuring its proper use and maintenance.
Several dignitaries at the event commended the governor for both the infrastructure project and the decision to honour Professor Nnannaya-Oti.
Many described the gesture as a powerful statement on the importance of integrity and accountability in public service, especially at a time when public trust in democratic institutions remains fragile.
Transport unions operating in the state also welcomed the development, saying the new terminal would improve operational efficiency and provide commuters with a safer and more organised environment.
Residents who attended the inauguration expressed optimism that the project would transform transportation in Umuahia and further enhance the image of the state capital.
The commissioning ceremony ended with cheers from supporters as the governor took a symbolic tour of the facility alongside government officials and invited guests.
