Abia State Launches Cashless Payments for Green Shuttle Buses

The Abia State Government has officially rolled out the Abia Connect Card, a cashless payment system for the Green Shuttle Bus Service, aimed at modernising public transport across the state. The initiative, driven by the Ministry of Transportation under Governor Alex Otti’s administration, is part of a broader effort to build a digital, efficient, and transparent commuting ecosystem for residents.

According to the Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, the rollout represents a milestone in improving public transport and reducing inefficiencies associated with cash payments. “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,” Kanu said.

The first card is currently free and can be obtained at designated Green Shuttle terminals and authorised agent locations across Aba and Umuahia. Prospective users must present their ABSSIN to register for the card, while residents without one can sign up via the Abia Pay portal.

Fare Structure and Usage Details

Once loaded, commuters simply tap the card on the payment device when boarding, with a confirmation sound indicating a successful transaction. The card works for both inter-city and intra-city routes, and funds remain valid indefinitely, as the card has no expiration date.

Inter-city fares are set at ₦800 for the Aba–Umuahia route and ₦1,000 for the Umuahia–Ohafia route, while city services within Aba and Umuahia operate at a flat rate of ₦150 across designated routes. A ₦50 top-up fee applies for adding funds to the card.

The government said the cashless system will help eliminate challenges such as disputes over change, delayed payments, and revenue leakages, while promoting accountability in the transport sector. By removing the reliance on cash, the initiative is expected to streamline boarding processes and reduce operational bottlenecks for drivers and passengers alike.

Abia State Government Encourages Residents to Join the Initiative

Officials have urged commuters to take advantage of the ongoing free card distribution, emphasizing the long-term benefits of a modernised public transport network. “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,” Kanu added.

With the launch of the Abia Connect Card, the state government is positioning its Green Shuttle Bus Service as a leading example of digital adoption in public transport, combining convenience for commuters with improved operational oversight for the authorities.

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