Enugu State took a bold step towards transforming its transport landscape on Thursday, August 14, 2025, as Governor Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah commissioned five ultra-modern bus terminals and rolled out a fleet of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered buses.
The commissioning ceremony, held across the terminals at Holy Ghost, Nsukka, Abakpa, and Gariki, attracted top government officials, transport union leaders, community representatives, and enthusiastic residents. The facilities, strategically located in high-traffic areas, are equipped with passenger lounges, ticketing offices, restrooms, loading bays, and security infrastructure to ensure efficiency, safety, and comfort.
Governor Mbah, addressing the gathering, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to modernising Enugu’s transport sector as part of his broader infrastructural renewal plan. He noted that the initiative would decongest urban roads, boost commerce, and create new job opportunities.
“This is more than a transport facility,it is an economic hub and an investment in the welfare of our people,” the governor said, urging transport operators to preserve the infrastructure for long-term benefit.
While many residents hailed the move as timely, some commercial drivers expressed fears over its potential impact on their income.
Anthony Okoro, who operates the Old Park–Nsukka route, voiced his concerns: “Passengers will surely embrace the CNG buses because they are cheaper. I make three to five trips a day, charging N3,000 per passenger, and with petrol almost N1,000 per litre, we just manage to break even. With these buses, our trips will reduce, and so will our earnings. It’s a blessing to some, but a headache to others.”
Another driver, Obinna Ogbonna, described the scheme as a looming challenge. “People hardly travel now. Sometimes, we run empty from Enugu to Nsukka just to keep our turn. With these buses, passengers will abandon us completely. At worst, we might have to go and work there,” he said.
For commuters, however, the initiative brings much-needed relief. Ngozika Ekwueme, a University of Nigeria, Nsukka student, said: “Commercial drivers have transferred their frustrations to passengers since subsidy removal. Governor Mbah has come to our rescue.”
Similarly, honey trader Ijeoma Abada from Opi praised the strategic siting of the terminals. “I spend N7,000 daily travelling to Enugu to sell honey. With these buses, I expect to save a lot. We anticipate lower costs, more comfort, and a better standard of living,” she said.
Economist Hillary Mbu commended the governor’s foresight but advised that the scheme be private-sector driven for sustainability. “Governments in Nigeria rarely manage businesses effectively. Let the state regulate operations but allow private operators to run the parks and buses. This will ensure efficiency and longevity,” he added.
The terminals, described by many as “beauties to behold,” are part of the Enugu State Transport Management System, which Governor Mbah announced on Wednesday via his official channels. In his words, “This is a bold step towards smarter mobility, smoother journeys, and a cleaner future for Ndi Enugu—transforming the way we move, work, and live. Tomorrow is here.”
With optimism running high among residents and transport experts alike, the project is expected to redefine commuting in Enugu, stimulate economic growth, and ease the cost of living for thousands across the state.