The Abia State Government has assured members of the Abia State Tricycle Operators Union (ASTOPU) that the introduction of electric buses is not aimed at displacing their operations but to complement the existing transport system across the state
The State Commissioner for Transport, Dr Chimezie Ukaegbu, gave the assurance on Tuesday at the Aba Town Hall during the 2025 ASTOPU reward and empowerment ceremony.
Ukaegbu stated, “The electric buses we are introducing in the state will not stop your operations or drive you away from the state; rather, they will complement your transport services in the state.”
He further urged tricycle operators to prioritise security and avoid alcohol while commending their support for the state government.
Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Transportation, Dr Obioma Nwaogbe, praised ASTOPU for its cooperation and revenue contributions, noting that the union stands to benefit further from government interventions beyond infrastructure development.
In separate remarks, the Aba Divisional Police, represented by the Divisional Police Officer, and the Federal Road Safety Corps, commended ASTOPU for its collaboration with security agencies, which they said had improved road safety and reduced traffic crashes.
The CEO of Abia SME Microfinance Bank, Chimeremeze Okeigbo, encouraged tricycle operators yet to be enumerated to register, highlighting the economic and security benefits of proper documentation.
ASTOPU Chairman, Comrade Victor Azubuike, explained that the event honoured operators who returned items forgotten by passengers, with 164 operators recognised for their honesty.
The ceremony included the presentation of bags of rice to these operators and awards to key stakeholders supporting the union, among the beneficiaries were Mark Onyekachi, Ife Donatus, and Cyprian Ughasoro.
Moronfolu Adeyemi
