2027 Polls: Ebonyi Transport Operators Endorse Nwifuru For Second Term

Ahead of 2027 general elections, Transport unions operating in Ebonyi State have unanimously endorsed Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru as their sole candidate for the governorship position in the next year general elections.

The endorsement which was led by the Commissioner for Transport and Special projects, Hon. Igboke Emeka Collins was made on Thursday at Abakaliki Township Stadium during a gathering of transport stakeholders in Ebonyi State, including EBOCAB, NURTW, EBOTRANS, Keke riders, Okada riders, shuttle riders, tipper drivers, and others.

Speaking at the event, Igboke described the gathering as a historic moment in the political and developmental journey of Ebonyi State, noting that transport operators had come together as one family to appreciate and publicly endorse Governor Nwifuru for what they described as his outstanding leadership and commitment to the welfare of Ebonyians.

According to the commissioner, one of the governor’s most commendable achievements has been his respect for democratic principles and the rule of law within the transport sector.

He also commended the establishment of EBOCAB, describing it as a visionary programme that has introduced innovation, technology, and efficiency into urban transportation in the state. According to him, the procurement of 20 new commuter buses for EBOTRANS has significantly improved the comfort, safety, and mobility of passengers while expanding transport services beyond the state’s borders.

The commissioner equally pointed out the installation, rehabilitation, and maintenance of traffic lights at strategic intersections within Abakaliki Capital City, saying the intervention has enhanced traffic management, improved road safety, and contributed to the beautification of the state capital

He also applauded the construction of modern bus shelters across Abakaliki and suburban areas, noting that the project has provided comfort and protection for commuters while improving the aesthetics of the city.

“That singular intervention has greatly improved the experience of commuters who now enjoy shelter while waiting for vehicles,” he stated.

Following what he described as a careful assessment of the governor’s performance and transformational leadership, Igboke announced that transport unions under the supervision of the Ministry of Transport and Special Projects had unanimously resolved to support Nwifuru’s re-election bid, citing his administration’s remarkable achievements and commitment to the development of the state

Also speaking, the General Manager of EBOTRANS, Hon. Mrs. Nnenna Jennifer Igwe, declared the corporation’s unwavering support for Governor Nwifuru’s re-election bid, citing his administration’s remarkable achievements and commitment to the development of the state

According to Igwe, the endorsement was based on a careful assessment of the governor’s performance over the past three years, particularly his implementation of the People’s Charter of Needs Agenda, which she said has brought significant progress across critical sectors of the state’s economy.

She noted that under Governor Nwifuru’s leadership, EBOTRANS has experienced unprecedented growth and operational transformation, leading to improved service delivery and expanded transportation services within and outside the state.

Among the achievements highlighted were the opening of new transport routes connecting Ebonyi State to Lagos, Ikom, Aba, Port Harcourt, and other major commercial centres across the country. The corporation also expanded its operations from Ovudu-Echi to Onitsha, Benin, Ore, and Lagos, thereby increasing accessibility and mobility for commuters.

The general manager further disclosed that more than twelve previously non-functional vehicles were rehabilitated and returned to service, while tenancy agreements for over sixteen operational depots across the state were renewed to ensure uninterrupted operations.

She added that infrastructural improvements were carried out across several EBOTRANS facilities, including the drilling of a motorized borehole at the Gunning Road Depot, installation of solar-powered lighting at the Lagos Depot, and the renovation and upgrading of the Ishiagu and Abuja depots.

Igwe also praised the administration for prioritizing staff welfare and professional development. According to her, drivers and other personnel have benefited from regular capacity-building programmes, retraining exercises, medical screenings, and health checks conducted in collaboration with relevant institutions and professionals.

She further revealed that new transport routes were established to serve strategic destinations, including King David University of Medical Sciences, while additional routes were opened in Ikwo and the Enugu Terminal to improve connectivity across the state.

The EBOTRANS boss described the upward review of staff salaries as another landmark achievement that has boosted employee morale and productivity.

She particularly commended Governor Nwifuru for donating twenty vehicles to the corporation, describing the gesture as a major intervention that accelerated the agency’s operational growth and enabled many of its recent accomplishment