The Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, on Thursday, August 14, 2025, unveiled what has been widely described as a disruptive transformation in the state’s transportation system. The commissioning of five ultra-modern bus terminals and the rollout of 100 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses represent not only a major step for Enugu but also a model of sustainable transport development for the South-East and Nigeria at large.
During a live session of Freedom Square on Solid 100.9 FM, held on Saturday under the theme “Nigeria and the World,” the host, Dr. Uchenna Cyril Anioke, featured members of the Guild of Public Affairs Analysts, Enugu Branch,Chukwudi Anyianuka and Emeka Odom ,as well as Precious Uba, the Project Lead for Touch and Pay Technologies. Their contributions highlighted the political weight of the project, describing it as both a fulfillment of Governor Mbah’s campaign promises and a landmark innovation for the people of Enugu and the South-East.
Anyianuka described the initiative as historic, drawing comparisons with past transport reforms such as the Coal City Shuttle. He emphasized that, unlike previous projects, the new CNG buses promise durability, environmental friendliness, affordability, and a boost to job creation and tourism.
Odom added that the terminals themselves reflect the standards of developed nations, urging citizens to protect the facilities while celebrating the government’s achievement.
Central to the system is the Ijecard, a modern payment and ticketing solution that ensures accountability and cashless operations. According to Uba, residents can obtain the card at ticketing booths within the terminals by providing basic details such as their name and phone number linked to BVN or NIN, along with a ₦500 registration fee. Once issued, the card can be topped up with a minimum of ₦500. Boarding requires a simple tap on the validator, which deducts the fare and confirms entry. Alighting involves another tap, which either closes the trip or refunds the unused portion of the fare if the passenger disembarks before the final stop. Beyond fare collection, the validator also serves as a manifest system to enhance passenger security.
The buses will initially ply 50 mapped routes, with pilot operations focused on key corridors across the state. From the Gariki Terminal, buses will move through Agbani, Abakpa, Holy Ghost, and Emene. The Holy Ghost Terminal connects to Emene, Agbani/4 Corners, Gariki, Abakpa, Nsukka, Ninth Mile, and Udi/Oji River. Abakpa Terminal covers routes linking Gariki, Holy Ghost, Nsukka, and Agbani, while the Nsukka Terminal will serve UNTH Old Site, UNTH New Site, and Abakpa loading points. Each bus is equipped with 45 seats, with capacity for up to 70 passengers, including provisions for those standing.
The broader advantages of this transport revolution are significant. Anyianuka highlighted that the initiative will reduce the cost of mobility, provide safer and more comfortable options for school children, and stimulate economic activity by creating direct and indirect employment. Its environmental benefits, derived from the adoption of CNG technology, further position Enugu as a leader in sustainable development.
The analysts offered recommendations for long-term success. They called on the Ministry of Transportation to expand the service to all local government headquarters to ensure equity and inclusiveness. They also stressed the need for sustained public enlightenment, urging the use of social media platforms and local languages to educate residents on registration and usage procedures. Security presence on buses, proper facility maintenance, and responsible use by commuters were equally emphasized as conditions for sustainability.
Governor Peter Mbah’s intervention in the transport sector is therefore more than an infrastructural upgrade; it is a deliberate political statement about governance, inclusiveness, and vision. It signals Enugu’s readiness to move from outdated systems to a modern, efficient, and environmentally sustainable model of urban development. For the citizens, the challenge remains to embrace this innovation, protect it, and ensure its sustainability for future generations.