From Joseph Asegba, Yola
The Adamawa State Government has finalised plans to upgrade its intra-city “Fresh Air” buses by converting them to compressed natural gas (CNG) and electric power as part of efforts to ease transportation challenges and reduce fuel costs for residents.
The Commissioner for Transportation, Hon. Winfe Brina Anthony, disclosed this in an interview with journalists in Yola.
She said the move aligned with Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri’s commitment to procure additional vehicles for the ministry, which would also be converted to CNG and electric power.
According to her, the initiative is expected to significantly reduce expenditure on petrol and diesel.
Anthony also directed operators of unauthorised motor parks to shut down and relocate to government-approved transport terminals across the state.
She said the administration had zero tolerance for illegal transport hubs, describing the directive as necessary to strengthen transport regulation, ease urban traffic congestion and address security risks associated with unmonitored transit points.
The commissioner noted that security assessments had shown that unregulated motor parks were increasingly becoming sites for illicit activities and uncontrolled passenger movements.
She added that the planned Mega Park would enhance security, reduce the difficulties passengers face at illegal parks and boost the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
Anthony further disclosed that a mechanic village would be constructed to support vehicle maintenance and improve sanitation.
She urged operators of illegal parks, particularly those in the state capital, to relocate promptly to officially designated terminals to ensure orderly transport operations.
According to her, government task forces comprising enforcement officers and security personnel would monitor compliance and seal illegal loading points in major commercial centres, including Yola and Mubi.
She reassured registered transport unions and commercial operators that designated central terminals had adequate capacity to accommodate relocated drivers and ensure seamless movement of commuters.
The commissioner recalled that the state government had earlier procured 19 luxury buses for intra-state services, a development she said had reduced transport fares by 50 per cent.
She added that efforts were underway to complete repairs and return the buses to service to enable them to continue providing transportation for residents.
