Monday, March, 2 2026 -The Abia State Government has commenced the full rollout of
the Abia Connect Card, a cashless payment system for the Green Shuttle Bus
Service, as part of efforts to modernise public transportation in the state.
The initiative, driven by the Ministry of Transportation
under Governor Alex Otti’s administration, aims to deliver a seamless commuting
experience for residents.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the Commissioner for
Information, Okey Kanu, on the Abia Ministry of Information handles, the
government described the development as a milestone in its drive to build a
digital, transparent and efficient transport ecosystem.
According to the statement, the Abia Connect Card, also
known as the “Abia State Card”, eliminates inconveniences associated with cash
payments, including delays, disputes over change and revenue leakages.
“We are intentionally moving away from the hassles of cash
transactions. With the Abia Connect Card, commuting becomes as simple as a
single tap. It is efficient, reliable, and designed to ensure that our public
transport system works effectively for everyone,” the statement read.
The government said the first card is currently free for
residents and can be obtained at designated Green Shuttle terminals and
authorised agent locations across Aba and Umuahia.
Prospective users are required to present their ABSSIN to
receive the card, while those without one can register via the Abia Pay portal.
After funding the card, subject to a ₦50 top-up charge, commuters are to tap it on the
payment device upon boarding, with a confirmation sound validating successful
payment.
It was stated that the card does not expire, and funds
loaded onto it remain valid without a time limitation, and the Green Shuttle
Service operates both inter-city and intra-city routes.
Kanu said the inter-city fares include Aba–Umuahia at ₦800 and Umuahia–Ohafia at ₦1,000. City services within Aba
and Umuahia operate at a flat rate of ₦150
across designated routes.
The state government urged commuters to take advantage of
the ongoing free card distribution, stating that the initiative would enhance
accountability and transparency in the transport sector.
“Our objective remains clear: to make Abia State’s transport
system a model of innovation, efficiency and transparency in Nigeria.
“I encourage all residents to obtain their cards and be part
of this transformative journey toward a smarter Abia,” the statement added.
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