The Abia State Government has launched the full implementation of a cashless payment system for its Green Shuttle Bus Service with the introduction of the Abia Connect Card, a move aimed at modernising public transportation and improving service delivery across the state.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Transportation under the administration of Governor Alex Otti, is designed to simplify commuting while strengthening transparency and accountability within the transport sector.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, described the rollout as a significant step toward building a technology-driven and efficient transportation ecosystem.
According to the government, the Abia Connect Card — also referred to as the Abia State Card — replaces traditional cash payments, eliminating common challenges such as delays during fare collection, disputes over change, and revenue leakages.
“We are deliberately moving away from the inconveniences associated with cash transactions. With the Abia Connect Card, commuting becomes as easy as a single tap.
It is efficient, dependable, and structured to ensure that public transport works better for everyone,” the statement said.
Authorities disclosed that the first card is currently being issued free of charge and can be obtained at designated Green Shuttle terminals and authorised agent centres located across Aba and Umuahia.
Residents are required to present their ABSSIN to receive the card, while individuals without the identification number can register through the Abia Pay online portal.
Once activated and funded — with a minimum ₦50 top-up requirement — commuters are expected to tap the card on onboard payment devices when boarding buses, with a confirmation sound indicating successful payment.
READ ALSO: Abia Gov Otti launches N1bn interest-free loan scheme for micro-businesses
The government further noted that the card has no expiry date, and funds loaded onto it remain valid indefinitely. The Green Shuttle Bus Service operates both inter-city and intra-city routes across the state.
Under the new fare structure, inter-city transportation costs ₦800 between Aba and Umuahia, while passengers travelling between Umuahia and Ohafia will pay ₦1,000.
Intra-city services within Aba and Umuahia maintain a flat fare of ₦150 across approved routes.
The state government encouraged residents to take advantage of the ongoing free distribution exercise, emphasising that the initiative would enhance financial accountability and operational efficiency within public transportation.
“Our objective is to position Abia’s transport system as a benchmark for innovation, efficiency and transparency in Nigeria.
We urge residents to obtain their cards and become part of the journey toward a smarter Abia State,” the statement added.