The Abia State Government has commenced the full deployment of the Abia Connect Card, a cashless payment solution introduced for the state’s Green Shuttle Bus Service in what officials describe as a bold step toward modernizing public transportation.

The initiative, driven by the Ministry of Transportation under the administration of Alex Otti, is designed to deliver a faster, more convenient and transparent commuting experience for residents.

In a statement released on Sunday by the Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, through the Abia Ministry of Information’s official channels, the government described the programme as a significant milestone in building a digital and accountable transport system.

“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.

Ending Cash Hassles

The Abia Connect Card, also referred to as the Abia State Card, eliminates common issues associated with cash payments, including delays, disputes over change and revenue leakages.

Under the new system, commuters simply tap their funded card on the payment device when boarding. A confirmation sound signals successful payment.

The first card is being issued free of charge at designated Green Shuttle terminals and approved agent locations in Aba and Umuahia. Applicants are required to present their ABSSIN to obtain the card, while those not yet enrolled can register via the Abia Pay portal.

Although the card itself is free, activation requires a ₦50 top-up fee. Importantly, the card has no expiry date, and funds loaded onto it remain valid indefinitely.

Affordable Fares Maintained

Despite the technological upgrade, the government says fares remain affordable. Aba–Umuahia inter-city route ₦800, Umuahia–Ohafia, ₦1,000 and ₦150 flat rate for intra-city routes within Aba and Umuahia.

The Green Shuttle Service operates both inter-city and intra-city routes across Abia State.

Officials say beyond convenience, the new system strengthens accountability and transparency in revenue management within the transport sector.

“Our objective remains clear, to make Abia State’s transport system a model of innovation, efficiency and transparency in Nigeria,” the statement added.

Residents have been encouraged to take advantage of the ongoing free card distribution and embrace what the government calls a transformative journey toward a smarter Abia.