Quick Read:
- Over 80 modern bus shelters completed
- Terminals feature food courts, cinemas, banking halls, and Nigeria’s longest sky bridge
- “This is unprecedented” – Planet Project MD
Enugu State has witnessed a groundbreaking transformation of its transportation ecosystem as Governor Dr. Peter Mbah, on Thursday, officially commissioned five ultramodern bus terminals, rolled out 100 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered buses, and launched a comprehensive Transport Management System designed to redefine mobility, safety, and economic growth in the state.
The unveiling, which drew mammoth crowds of jubilant residents, marks a critical milestone in the governor’s Integrated Transport Infrastructure Master Plan, part of his larger vision to grow Enugu’s economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion within a decade.
Five Landmark Terminals for a Modern Enugu
The inaugurated terminals include:
- Holy Ghost Terminal 1 (Enugu Central Station 1) – Inter-state transport hub.
- Holy Ghost Terminal 2 (Enugu Central Station 2) – Dedicated to inter-city transport.
- Nsukka Terminal (Nsukka Central Station).
- Abakpa Nike Terminal (Abakpa Central Station).
- Gariki Terminal (Gariki Central Station).
Each terminal is designed to global standards, featuring food courts, banking halls, motels, retail outlets, CNG refilling stations, and cinemas.
A key highlight is the 400-metre-long sky bridge linking the two Holy Ghost Terminals – now the longest pedestrian sky bridge in Nigeria.
A New Era of Commuting
Governor Mbah emphasized that the projects were not just about transport infrastructure but about reshaping the daily lives of over seven million Enugu residents.
“Until late 2023, the Holy Ghost area was practically synonymous with traffic chaos and disorder,” the governor recalled. “But we knew we could not achieve our audacious economic goals without a modern, dignified, and efficient transport system. Today, we are not merely cutting ribbons – we are inaugurating a whole new chapter in the Enugu story.”
The newly rolled-out 100 CNG buses, equipped with free Wi-Fi, GPS tracking, and onboard security systems, will significantly cut transport costs, reduce emissions, and improve safety for commuters.
Over 80 modern bus shelters have also been constructed across the state to enhance commuter comfort.
Jobs, Transparency, and Economic Growth
The governor noted that the transport transformation is a catalyst for economic revival.
“Already, this project is creating jobs, stimulating small businesses, and positioning Enugu to compete with the best cities in Africa. Through it, we are generating over 20,000 jobs across Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), 2,000 hybrid city taxis, airport operations, ride-hailing, and support services,” he said.
To ensure sustainability and accountability, Mbah unveiled the Enugu Transport Management System (ETMS), anchored on e-ticketing, digital payments, and insurance coverage.
“Every payment will be accounted for. With a single ticket, commuters can access different buses within the network. Our insurance scheme ensures that both assets and people are protected,” he explained.
Federal Support and Regional Implications
Governor Mbah used the event to commend President Bola Tinubu for his support, particularly the concession of Akanu Ibiam International Airport, which he described as a game-changer for positioning Enugu as a regional aviation and economic hub.
“No administration has given as much support to sub-nationals as this President,” Mbah stated.
Industry and Stakeholder Reactions
The event attracted praise from stakeholders across government, business, and civil society.
Engr. Tari Mayor-Bright, representing the Programme Director of the Presidential CNG Initiative, lauded the governor:
“This is more than infrastructure. It is a bold step towards a cleaner, safer, and more affordable transport future for Ndi Enugu.”
Biodun Otunola, Managing Director of Planet Project Construction Company, contractors of the terminals, described the simultaneous construction of five terminals as “unprecedented in Nigeria’s history.”
Local government chairmen, traditional rulers, and market leaders also hailed the project as a turning point for Enugu’s economy, stressing that improved mobility will boost trade, reduce travel stress, and open up communities.
Why It Matters
The Enugu Transport Overhaul is more than a facelift. It signals the emergence of Enugu as a model smart city with an integrated transport system combining road, rail, air, and waterways. By prioritizing green technology (CNG buses), digital payments, and public convenience, the Mbah administration is setting new standards in urban governance.
For residents like Onyema Idoko, chairman of Ogige Market Traders Association, the development is deeply personal:
“Traders can now move goods faster, commuters will save time, and families will enjoy safer, cleaner journeys. This is truly a people’s project.”
The Big Picture
As the five terminals, 100 CNG buses, and modern shelters begin operations, Enugu State is not just solving the problem of urban transport – it is laying the foundation for a smarter economy, greener environment, and more livable communities.
Governor Mbah’s bold step has redefined transportation in Enugu, positioning the state as a national pacesetter and an economic beacon in the South East.
