Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has approved the procurement of 50 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses, the introduction of electric vehicles into the state’s transport system, and the construction of an ultra-modern mega bus terminal in Asaba as part of a sweeping plan to modernise public transportation.
The approvals were among the major resolutions reached at the State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting presided over by the governor.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, the Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Onoriode Agofure, said the decisions followed a comprehensive transportation study conducted across major cities in the state, including Warri, Asaba, Ughelli, Agbor, Sapele, Abraka and Oleh.
According to the commissioner, the study showed that more than 19,000 people commute daily across Delta State, with approximately 80 per cent relying on public transportation, while only 20 per cent use private vehicles.
He said the findings highlighted the urgent need for government intervention to strengthen the state’s public transport system and improve mobility for the majority of residents.
Agofure noted that Governor Oborevwori considers transportation a critical driver of economic growth, pointing out that efficient movement of people and goods is essential for commerce, education, employment and other socio-economic activities.
“The governor recognises that transportation is central to economic development. People depend on it to access markets, schools, offices and other essential services. The COVID-19 pandemic clearly demonstrated how restrictions on movement could cripple economies around the world,” he said.
The commissioner explained that the newly approved 50 CNG buses will serve as the backbone of the state’s MORE Mass Transit Scheme, providing residents with safer, more affordable and efficient transportation.
He added that the approval for electric vehicles reflects the administration’s commitment to adopting cleaner, environmentally sustainable transport solutions in line with global best practices.
Agofure further disclosed that EXCO approved the construction of an ultra-modern mega bus terminal in Asaba, which will serve as the operational hub for the state’s mass transit system.
According to him, the facility will eliminate the numerous roadside and informal motor parks around the Koka Junction axis, improve traffic flow and enhance the aesthetic appeal of the state capital.
He revealed that land has already been secured for the project and preliminary processes are underway ahead of construction.
Upon completion, all existing informal parks, including those operated by private transport companies, will be relocated to the new terminal to ensure a more organised and efficient transport network.
The commissioner also announced that a similar mega bus terminal will be constructed in Warri, noting that the Federal Government has already approved the project following Governor Oborevwori’s intervention.
He said the initiatives form part of the Oborevwori administration’s broader commitment to transforming Delta State’s transport infrastructure through a modern, integrated and sustainable mass transit system that will improve the quality of life for residents and support economic development.
