The Enugu State Government has unveiled the first phase of the Transport Infrastructure Project in the state.
Unveiling the project on Sunday, the state Commissioner for Transportation, Obi Ozor, said the project includes several world-class bus terminals, transport interchanges, logistics hubs, city gates and rail stations across the state.
Ozor explained that the project would provide over 11,000 skilled and semi-skilled jobs for youths of the state and also attract at least N47.5 billion investment to the economy.
In a statement made available to journalists on Monday, the commissioner maintained that the state had taken series of ambitious steps in line with Governor Peter Mbah’s vision to reposition and remodel the transport sector and make it one of the leading modern transportation systems in Africa.
The statement partly read, “This ambitious undertaking aligns seamlessly with the state’s infrastructure enhancement plan and reflects the governor’s vision of leveraging transport and logistics to spur economic transportation, drawing inspiration from successful models in Dubai and Singapore.
“This first phase of the project is aimed at optimising transport efficiency, preserving road assets, and fostering a conducive environment for the growth of transport-related businesses and sustainable logistics to alleviate congestion and enhance connectivity within the state in order to meet the rapidly urbanizing and growing population of the state.”
While explaining that the project would be strategically distributed across major hubs in the state for maximum economic impact, the commissioner noted that the modern transport interchanges and bus terminals would include the Enugu Central Station (Holy Ghost), Garki Central Station, Abakpa Central Station, and Nsukka Central Station, adding that the logistic hubs would be sited at Obollo Afor, 9th Mile Corner and Emene to address the shortages in existing infrastructure.
The statement further revealed that two iconic “City Gates” would be located at the Naira Triangle, Enugu, and 9th Mile, Udi, to enhance the aesthetic appeal and foster a sense of identity and pride among residents, while road markings, junction improvements and bus stop upgrades would streamline traffic management and enhance pedestrian safety.
“Enugu Central Station will commence shortly opposite the Holy Ghost Cathedral. It promises to bring peace, decency, and order to an area that has challenged previous administrations’ attempts at transformation.
“Featuring two terminals dedicated to interstate and intra-city transport for ease of movement of people to the most prominent economic hub in Enugu State, an ultra-modern train station, and a myriad of amenities such as over 1,000 parking spaces, hundreds of lettable spaces for businesses, ticketing halls, external bus shelters, CNG/LNG daughter stations, filling stations, lounges, electric vehicle and a solar farm roof, this comprehensive approach ensures convenience, sustainability, and economic opportunities for users and businesses alike,” the statement added.