ABC Transport recounts milestones at 30, reveals future plans

ABC Transport has clocked 30 years, having commenced operation in Nigeria on February 13,1993, with just two buses. The company has grown to be a formidable force, providing safe, comfortable, and reliable transportation and logistic services to millions of Nigerians and beyond.

Specifically, ABC Transport now a household name in the transportation industry, has a fleet of over 500 vehicles and a network of over 60 locations across the country.

The company says it has also expanded its operations to other African countries such as Ghana, Togo and Benin Republic.

A statement by the firm notes that over the past 30 years, ABC Transport has achieved numerous milestones, one of which was introducing luxury buses with onboard restroom facilities, television, air conditioning and other amenities; and offered on-board refreshment.

“These effects offer a high level of comfort to passengers and made ABC Transport the first Nigerian transport company to offer real luxury Coaches to its customers,” it states.

ABC Transport is also credited for being the first and only road transport company to be listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

It says, “The company has also been recognized for its outstanding performance in the transport industry, winning several awards and accolades both nationally and internationally.

“ABC Transport was first to establish ultramodern Terminals in Nigeria and beyond.

“ABC Transport rolled out Coach West Africa on July 16, 2004 with new state-of-the-art fleets – featuring the most modern coach service in the West African sub-region. Coach West Africa brought West African countries closer than ever imagined. This initiative stimulated ECOWAS integration in terms of travel, tourism and trade.”

One of the initiatives of the company is the establishment of Driver Training Academy and it graduated its first set of trainees in 2004.

It states, “The DTA was founded with a mission to ‘prepare and produce’ for Nigeria’s motoring environment, law abiding and safety-conscious drivers who appreciate the value of human life.

“It admits trainees from within ABC Transport and other organisation wishing to benefit from the comprehensive training packages approved by the Federal Road Safety Commission.”

ABC Transport scored another first in the industry when it introduced the online booking platform in 2007, making it easier for its customers to book their trips and pay online from the comfort of their homes and offices. The mobile app was later introduced to enhance self-service.

ABC Transport has continued to expand its services with a focus on diversification.

“Today, it stands to be the most diversified Transport company in West African sub-region; having launched a hospitality arm with City Transit Inn in Utako to serve Abuja travellers; logistics and warehousing with its ABC Cargo Express Ltd, and Haulage services with ABC Hauls.

ABC Cargo Express, which started as a division of the company, has now grown to be a wholly owned subsidiary of the parent company.

ABC Transport has ventured into vehicle assembly. In 2012, it took 50% stake in Transit Support Services Ltd, which is into assembly of heavy and light duty trucks with its flagship brand, Shacman (fire trucks etc.) & Forland trucks, Asiastar luxury buses and Baw mini buses and ambulances.

The company said it had lined up several activities to commemorate the 30th anniversary, including customer and staff appreciation events.

Speaking on anniversary, the Managing Director/CEO of ABC Transport PLC, Mr Frank Nneji, says: “As we mark the 30th anniversary of this great company, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to our customers, stakeholders, partners, and employees for their unwavering support and loyalty over the years.

“We remain committed to providing excellent and innovative transportation services that meet the needs of our customers and are looking forward to the future.”

The Group Head, Innovation & Strategy, Mr Victor Nneji, speaks on the future of the company.

He says, “As we look towards the future, one thing is certain: the possibilities are endless. With advancements in technology and a commitment to innovation, we are confident that our business will continue to provide safe, reliable, and efficient service to our valued customers for many years to come.”

Despite daunting challenges of doing business in Nigeria in the last 30 years, ABC Transport says it has not only stood the test of time but has maintained its spot as a top player in the travel and logistics industry.

It described its founder, Frank Nneji, as a visionary entrepreneur with a reputation for innovation, adding that his commitment to excellence has been the driving force behind the company’s success.

Frank Nneji (2nd from right) presenting keys to two mini buses to ABC Transport pioneer drivers, to mark the company’s 25th anniversary in 2018.