By Israella Njasi, Umuahia
Otti applauds FUTO Vice Chancellor.
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has officially renamed the newly inaugurated Umuahia Central Bus Terminal after Professor Nnenna Nnannaya-Oti, Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO). The announcement was made during the commissioning ceremony of the state-of-the-art terminal, which is set to become a major hub for inter-state and local transportation in the state.
Governor Otti cited Professor Nnannaya-Oti’s exemplary integrity, especially her steadfast commitment to transparency and fairness during the 2023 elections, as the key reason for honoring her with this recognition. “Professor Nnannaya-Oti embodies the virtues of honesty, dedication, and service. It is only fitting that a landmark of public convenience and connectivity carries the name of someone who has consistently demonstrated the highest standards of leadership,” Governor Otti said.
The Umuahia Central Bus Terminal is one of the largest in the South-East region, designed to ease traffic congestion, enhance commuter safety, and provide modern facilities for travelers. The terminal features spacious waiting areas, ticketing offices, security checkpoints, and amenities for passengers, reflecting the state government’s commitment to modernizing transport infrastructure.
Professor Nnannaya-Oti, who was visibly moved by the honor, thanked Governor Otti and the people of Abia State for the recognition. She expressed her hope that the terminal would serve as a symbol of progress, good governance, and integrity for the state.
Analysts say this move by Governor Otti underscores a growing trend in Nigeria where public infrastructure is being named after individuals who have distinguished themselves in public service and academic excellence, reinforcing the values of merit and integrity.
Residents of Umuahia have lauded the renaming, describing it as “a fitting tribute to a respected academic leader whose influence extends beyond the classroom into the moral and civic life of the state.”
With the renaming, the Umuahia Central Bus Terminal now stands not only as a hub of transport but also as a landmark celebrating exemplary leadership, integrity, and the transformative role of education in society.
