Urban Mass Transit Records High Patronage in Pilot Phase, Sets to Continue Free Services – Abia Govt

Abia State Government says more than 31,500 passengers have already taken advantage of the free bus service of its Urban Mass Transit Scheme since the pilot phase began December 24, 2025.

Commissioner for Information Prince Okey Kanu made this known while briefing newsmen on the sidelines of this week’s executive Council meeting, noting that the figure clearly shows the strong need for an organized and affordable public transport system in the state.

Kanu explained that the pilot phase was designed to test the efficiency, reliability and public acceptance of the transport system before the commencement of full commercial operations.

As part of the pilot, the state introduced free intra-city and inter-city bus services along major transport corridors, enabling residents to move around at no cost while the system is being fine-tuned.

According to him, three intra-city routes are currently operational in both Umuahia and Aba, noting that the number of buses deployed daily varies depending on demand, ranging from four on low-traffic days to as many as 17 during peak periods.

The commissioner described the response from the public as “very encouraging,” saying the high patronage recorded so far demonstrates the people’s growing trust in government-driven transport initiatives.

“The free rides will continue until the full commercial services commence,” Kanu said.

“The supporting infrastructure for the operations of the bus mass transit service such as the Ultra Modern Bus Terminal, junction improvement works in Umuahia, the installation of the charging stations, and all other support infrastructure are being readied for the full commencement of the bus commercial services.”

Answering questions on the rush to board the buses, the Commissioner for Transport Dr Chimezie Ukaegbu noted that because the bus operations are at the pilot stages, they are not expected to be perfect until the people get used to it.

“You know, like I said initially, this is the pilot stage, and the pilot stage is the learning period. I know in all the bus shelters, we’ve actually procured the services of the Harmonised Task Force, and of course, Homeland Security for the provision of security at the bus shelters. The essence of having them at the bus shelters is to make sure that passengers feel safe,” Ukaegbu noted.

“They know this is a new thing. It’s just the first of its kind. And because it’s free, we will see a lot of people trying to board the buses at the same time. They will take notice of that, and it will be corrected.”