RismadarVoice Reporters
January 25, 2020
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has flagged off the construction of the Ibom Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Mass Transit Terminal at Ikot Ekpe Offot, Uyo.
This is part of his administration’s efforts to provide a world-class transportation system in the state.
The Governor performed the flag-off ceremony on Saturday, at the project site, stating that the initiative is aimed at easing movement within the state, stimulating economic activities, and boosting tourism.
Governor Eno explained that the project is designed to link all 31 Local Government Areas of the state to the capital city through an efficient and affordable mass transit system, in line with his administration’s vision of inclusive development.
He commended the Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Anthony Luke, for the swift preparation of the site, noting that the area was previously abandoned and had become a hideout for criminals.
Governor Eno announced that 50 luxury CNG buses have already been ordered and fully paid for through the Central Bank of Nigeria, adding that delivery of the buses would commence in April this year.
Highlighting the economic significance of the project, the Governor acknowledged the support of the Minister of Petroleum Resources (Gas), Obongemem Ekperikpe Ekpo, noting that the terminal would incorporate gas stations, a technical training school, and create employment opportunities for about 500 drivers, among others.
He further stated that the CNG terminal is part of a broader transportation development plan that includes marine and aviation transport, revealing that construction of a marine terminal and warehouse in Oron was at an advanced stage, alongside the procurement of two marine boats.
Earlier, while presenting an overview of the project, Dr. Anthony Luke said the facility would feature a technical college for training technicians, employment opportunities for drivers and ticketing officers, a modern loading bay, a restaurant offering local delicacies, an automated car wash, high-tech security surveillance, and a police station.
In his goodwill message, the Minister of Petroleum Resources (Gas), Obongemem Ekperikpe Ekpo, described Governor Eno as a pragmatic, visionary leader, adding that the project aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in cushioning the effects of fuel subsidy removal.
The minister noted that the use of CNG would promote environmental sustainability and reduce transportation costs, pledging federal support through the provision of CNG mother stations to ensure the success of the initiative.
