Abia Transport Commissioner seeks enhanced partnership with Journalists

The Abia State Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Isaac Ukaegbu, has said the Otti administration is leveraging technology to improve transparency, revenue administration and service delivery in the transport sector.

Dr. Ukaegbu disclosed this on Thursday at the Emergency Congress of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Abia State Council, held at the NUJ Press Centre, No. 66 Aba Road, Umuahia, with theme “Transforming Abia State’s Transport Sector Through Innovation, Safety and Sustainable Development.”

He said modern transport systems depend on reliable data, transparent payment systems and clear accountability, citing the electronic fare collection through the Abia Connect card in the Green Shuttle Service as example of how technology supports better management.

According to him, government is pursuing improvements in administration of transport-related payments and operational records to reduce unnecessary cash handling, strengthen financial accountability and ensure revenue due to government is properly accounted for.

“Technology must be accompanied by effective supervision, appropriate training and clear operating procedures. Digital systems are tools for improving governance; their success ultimately depends on integrity of people who operate them,” he said.

The Commissioner said the Ministry’s vision is anchored on five strategic priorities – modernisation of public transportation, development of modern infrastructure, improvement of road safety, institutional reforms and sustainable integrated mobility.

He acknowledged the indispensable role of the media, describing NUJ as strategic partner in democratic development, and welcomed constructive criticism.

“As journalists, you have responsibility to inform public accurately and hold public institutions accountable. As government officials, we have responsibility to provide information and correct misinformation,” he said.

Ukaegbu appealed for accuracy, fairness and balance, urging NUJ to sustain public enlightenment on road safety, responsible driving and proper use of transport facilities, while assuring Ministry’s commitment to constructive engagement.

He noted that under Governor Alex Otti, the State is moving from fragmented arrangements to a system that is better organised, technologically enabled and environmentally responsible.