Yuletide: Abia rolls out EV bus service with free intra-city, inter-city rides

The Abia State Government has rolled out its electric vehicle (EV) mass transit bus service, deploying four buses to offer free intra-city transportation in Umuahia and Aba under a pilot scheme.

The service commenced on Tuesday, December 24, 2025, in line with the pledge made by Governor Alex Otti during the handover ceremony of the mass transit buses.

According to a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, two of the buses will operate within Umuahia, while the remaining two have been deployed to Aba.

In Umuahia, the buses will ply two routes: Isi-Gate to Ubakala, and Okpara Square to Express Tower. In Aba, the designated routes are Osisioma to Park, and Park to Ala-Oji through Port Harcourt Road.

Beyond intra-city services, the state government has also commenced free inter-city operations, with two daily trips running between Umuahia and Aba and returning to Umuahia.

Each bus will be operated by a pilot and a co-pilot, while commuters will be conveyed on a first-come, first-served basis. Passengers have been advised to adhere strictly to instructions from the bus operators to ensure a smooth and safe commuting experience.

Prince Kanu described the rollout as a learning process for all stakeholders involved, noting that challenges may arise at the early stage of the initiative.

“There are bound to be mistakes at this teething stage,” he said, appealing to residents for patience, understanding and public support as the state introduces a new experience in public transportation.

The EV bus initiative is part of the Otti administration’s broader push to improve urban mobility, reduce transportation costs for residents and promote cleaner, more sustainable transport options in Abia State.