Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has flagged off the construction of the Ibom CNG Mass Transit Terminal at Ikot Ekpe Offot, Uyo, describing the project as a major step toward building a modern, affordable, and efficient transportation system for residents.
The governor performed the flag off on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at the terminal premises, where he said his administration is committed to delivering a world class transport facility that will ease movement within the state, strengthen the economy, and support tourism growth.
He explained that the decision to develop a world class transport system is aimed at linking all 31 local government areas of the state directly to the capital city, thereby improving access, reducing travel stress, and opening up economic and tourism opportunities across communities.
Governor Eno commended the Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Anthony Luke, for the speedy preparation of the site, noting that the area had previously been abandoned and unsafe before the intervention of the present administration.
“I thank the Honourable Commissioner for Transport for the work they have done here. Some of you remember when we first visited this site, it was not a good sight. Like the Commissioner has said, it was abandoned and became a living abode for touts and criminals. But today, it has been well cleared and prepared to receive a world class bus terminal,” the governor said.
He added that the terminal will serve as a major transport hub from where residents will travel through well paved and constructed roads to all 31 local government areas of Akwa Ibom State.
“From here our people are going to be driven through our very well paved and constructed roads to the 31 local government areas. All the 50 CNG buses have already been ordered and paid for through the Central Bank of Nigeria, and they will start arriving in April this year,” he said.
According to the governor, the buses are compressed natural gas vehicles that will be deployed to service all local government areas, providing comfort, safety, and affordability for commuters.
Highlighting the economic value of the project, Governor Eno acknowledged the support of the Honourable Minister of Petroleum-Gas, Obongemem Ekperikpe Ekpo, stating that the collaboration will help integrate gas stations, training schools for technicians, and create jobs for about 500 drivers.
“We are trying to bring down the cost of living for all Akwa Ibomites. If transportation is brought down, everything comes down and the economy will be stable,” the governor said.
Governor Eno also disclosed that the state government is strengthening transportation infrastructure across different sectors, including marine and aviation transportation.
“We are working on our transportation system in this state, whether it is marine transportation or aviation. We are building a marine terminal in Oron, and work is at its advanced stage. We are building a warehouse there too, we have ordered two marine boats, one is done by the Nigerian Navy, and another by a company in Lagos,” he said.
Presenting an overview of the project, Hon. Anthony Luke thanked the governor for transforming an area that was once a criminal hideout into a valuable asset that will benefit residents and visitors to the state.
He explained that the terminal is designed to include a technical college for training technicians, employment opportunities for 500 drivers and ticketing officers, a loading bay, a world class restaurant for local dishes, and an automated car wash.
Luke added that the project will also feature a high security surveillance system and a police station to ensure safety for passengers and staff.
In his goodwill message, the Honourable Minister of Petroleum-Gas, Obongemem Ekperikpe Ekpo, praised Governor Eno for what he described as pragmatic leadership driven by peace and vision.
He said the project reflects President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope vision, particularly in addressing the effects of fuel subsidy removal through cleaner energy solutions.
The minister explained that the use of gas will promote environmental sustainability, reduce transportation costs, and ensure energy security in a country with large gas reserves.
He pledged the support of his ministry by providing CNG mother stations to help the state achieve its transport sector goals.
Earlier, in his welcome remarks, the Chairman of Uyo Local Government, Hon. Uwemedimo Udo, commended the governor for collaborating with the Federal Government on the CNG transport initiative.
Udo noted that the project aligns with the federal vision to promote cleaner energy, lower transportation costs, and create job opportunities for indigenes of host communities and the state at large.
