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Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has approved the procurement of 50 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses, the acquisition of electric vehicles and the construction of an ultra-modern mega bus terminal in Asaba as part of a sweeping plan to modernise public transportation across the state.

The approvals were among the major decisions taken at the State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting chaired by the governor.

Addressing journalists after the meeting, the Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Onoriode Agofure, said the decisions were based on the findings of a comprehensive transportation study conducted in major cities across the state, including Warri, Asaba, Ughelli, Agbor, Sapele, Abraka and Oleh.

According to him, the study showed that more than 19,000 people commute daily across the state, with about 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 investment in a modern, reliable and efficient mass transit system capable of serving the transportation needs of the majority of Deltans.

Agofure noted that Governor Oborevwori recognised transportation as a key driver of economic growth, stressing that efficient movement of people and goods was essential for commerce, education and access to workplaces.

“The governor is aware that transportation is central to economic development. People depend on transportation to go to the market, schools, offices and other places. The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated how restrictions on movement could shut down economies across the world,” he said.

The commissioner explained that the newly approved 50 CNG buses would serve as the backbone of the state’s MORE Mass Transit Scheme, designed to provide residents with safe, affordable and efficient transportation services.

He added that the approval for electric vehicles reflected the administration’s commitment to embracing cleaner, environmentally friendly and sustainable transportation solutions.

As part of the transport overhaul, EXCO also 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 Agofure, the facility is expected to eliminate the numerous roadside and informal motor parks around the busy Koka Junction axis, improve traffic flow and enhance the aesthetics of the state capital.

He disclosed that land for the project had already been acquired and that necessary processes were underway to commence construction.

Upon completion, all existing mushroom parks, including those operated by private transport operators, will be relocated to the new terminal to create a more organised and integrated transport system.

Agofure further revealed that a similar mega bus terminal would be constructed in Warri, adding that the Federal Government had already approved the project following Governor Oborevwori’s intervention.

He said the projects underscored the Oborevwori administration’s commitment to modernising transportation infrastructure and delivering an efficient, integrated and environmentally sustainable public transport network that would improve mobility and boost economic activities across Delta State.