Abia begins cashless payment for green shuttle buses

The Abia State Government has initiated the comprehensive implementation of the Abia Connect Card, a cashless payment solution for the Green Shuttle Bus Service, as part of its efforts to modernize public transportation within the state.

This initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Transportation under the leadership of Governor Alex Otti, seeks to provide residents with a seamless commuting experience.

In a statement released on Sunday by the Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, through the official channels of the Abia Ministry of Information, the government characterized this development as a significant milestone in its pursuit of establishing a digital, transparent, and efficient transportation ecosystem.

The statement indicated that the Abia Connect Card, also referred to as the “Abia State Card,” removes the inconveniences linked to cash transactions, such as delays, disputes regarding change, and revenue losses.

“We are deliberately transitioning away from the challenges posed by cash transactions. With the Abia Connect Card, commuting is as straightforward as a single tap. It is efficient, dependable, and crafted to ensure that our public transport system operates effectively for all,” the statement conveyed.

The government announced that the initial card is currently available free of charge for residents and can be acquired at specified Green Shuttle terminals and authorized agent locations throughout Aba and Umuahia.

Potential users must present their ABSSIN to obtain the card, while those lacking one can register through the Abia Pay portal.

After funding the card, which incurs a ₦50 top-up fee, commuters are required to tap it on the payment device upon boarding, with a confirmation sound indicating successful payment.

It was noted that the card does not have an expiration date, and the funds loaded onto it remain valid indefinitely, with the Green Shuttle Service operating both inter-city and intra-city routes.

Kanu mentioned that the inter-city fares include Aba–Umuahia at ₦800 and Umuahia–Ohafia at ₦1,000. City services within Aba and Umuahia are available 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.