The Director General of World Trade Organisation, WTO, Mrs Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has called for collective efforts around the world in tackling pollution and climate change-generated problems.
Okonjo-Iweala who was speaking in Umuahia on Monday while commissioning electric buses procured by the Abia State government, said that any initiative that promotes safe climate must be supported, for public health.
The former Nigerian Minister of Finance commended Governor Alex Otti and his administration for being the first state in the country to officially launch electric buses, and expressed optimism that other states in the country will follow suit.
“One of the biggest things we suffer from in the world is the problem of pollution and climate change.
“And even though Africa contributes only three percent of global carbon emissions, which is very limited, yet all of us have to contribute to a better climate for the world,” she said.
In his address during the commissioning, Abia State Governor, Alex Otti said the introduction of the electric buses represented a new future, as according to him, the world is heading towards zero emission.
Otti who said the vehicles were specially designed to accommodate the interests of Persons Living with Disabilities, said when fully charged, the vehicles can cover between 400 and 450 kilometers.
The governor announced that the vehicles will provide free transportation for Abia commuters between December and early part of January 2026 on scheduled routes.
He disclosed that special cameras were installed in the buses for the safety of passengers. According to him, the cameras would trace and record all unlawful acts.
Okonjo-Iweala commissions Abia electric buses, preaches against pollution
