Dr. Chika Benson Abazu, the Commissioner for Transport in Imo State, has shared key plans and initiatives aimed at transforming the state’s transportation sector under the leadership of Governor Hope Uzodimma.
Speaking in a recent media interaction at his office in the Imo State Secretariat in Owerri, Abazu outlined several ambitious projects that are aligned with the state’s “Shared Prosperity” agenda, particularly in the areas of public transportation and infrastructure development.
Abazu began by reflecting on the state of the transportation system prior to Governor Uzodimma’s administration, highlighting the absence of a clear transport policy and proper implementation mechanisms.
He noted that previous administrations had failed to establish a coherent transport framework, resulting in a lack of organization and efficiency in the sector.
According to Abazu, the current administration is committed to reversing these shortcomings.
“We are in a new era under Governor Hope Uzodimma’s leadership,” Abazu stated. “Before 2020, there was no transport policy, no implementation of a master plan, and no semblance of order in the transport sector.
However, under the Shared Prosperity Administration, we have set out to implement global standards and bring sanity to the sector.”
One of the central proposals Abazu emphasized was the revival of the Imo State Railway Transport Metro Plan, which will serve all three senatorial zones—Owerri, Orlu, and Okigwe.
The project aims to establish the state’s railway system, offering a more efficient and sustainable mode of transport for residents and visitors alike.
In addition, the transport commissioner outlined plans for the establishment of central bus terminals across the state.
These terminals are expected to improve the management of intercity transportation, reduce congestion, and provide better services to commuters.
Abazu also mentioned that the state is working on securing support for Smart Financing options to fund these infrastructure projects, ensuring they meet global standards and are financially sustainable in the long run.
“We are already in discussions with international development partners, and we have exciting plans in place to make these initiatives a reality,” he continued.
“We are also advocating for the adoption of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as an alternative fuel source, with Governor Uzodimma’s full backing, which will reduce the environmental impact of transportation and improve the overall sustainability of the sector.”
Abazu’s remarks underscore the state government’s commitment to modernizing Imo’s transport infrastructure, providing more sustainable options, and creating an efficient, people-centered system for the benefit of all Imo residents.
As the transportation sector continues to be a priority under Governor Uzodimma’s 3R (Rehabilitation, Reconstruction, and Recovery) agenda, the commissioner expressed confidence that these proposed projects will lead to improved economic activities, better mobility for citizens, and a more organized transport system across the state.
According to the Imo Transport Commissioner, “This development is expected to generate numerous job opportunities and attract substantial investment, driving long-term economic growth and prosperity for the region”.
