Abia Launches Cashless Revolution For Green Shuttle Services

The Abia State Government has commenced the full rollout of the Abia Connect Card, the official cashless payment system for the state-owned Green Shuttle Bus Service, marking a major step toward modernizing public transportation across the state.

The initiative, introduced under the administration of Alex Otti, is designed to deliver a seamless, technology-driven commuting experience for residents. According to the government, the reform underscores its commitment to building a transparent, efficient, and digitally enabled transport ecosystem.

Driven by the Ministry of Transportation, the cashless system eliminates the inconveniences associated with physical cash transactions, including delays, disputes over change, and revenue leakages.

With the new system, commuters simply tap their Abia Connect Card on the payment device upon boarding, receiving a confirmation sound to validate successful payment.

Officials described the innovation as a deliberate move away from cash-related bottlenecks toward a reliable and structured transport system that works efficiently for all residents.

Simplified Card Acquisition Process
To ensure a smooth transition, the government has outlined an easy process for obtaining and using the card:
The first Abia Connect Card is currently issued free of charge.

Residents can collect their cards at designated Green Shuttle terminals and authorized agent locations across Aba and Umuahia.

Prospective users must present their ABSSIN (Abia State Social Identification Number) to receive the card. Those without an ABSSIN can generate one through the Abia Pay online registration portal.

After funding the card—subject to a minimal ₦50 top-up charge—commuters are required to tap the card upon boarding.

The card does not expire, and funds loaded onto it remain valid without time limitation.

Routes and Fare Structure
The Green Shuttle Service continues to operate across key inter-city and intra-city routes at regulated fares:
Inter-City Services:
Aba – Umuahia – Aba: ₦800
Umuahia – Ohafia – Umuahia: ₦1,000

Umuahia City Services (Flat Rate: ₦150):
Ubakala – Isi Gate (Terminal)
Isi Gate – Tower
Isi Gate – Secretariat/JAC Building
Isi Gate – Ohafia

Aba City Services (Flat Rate: ₦150):

Osisioma Junction – Zonal Board Bus Stop – Bata Bus Stop – Park
Opopo Junction – Park
Park – Uratta Junction Bus Stop – Ohabiam Bus Stop – Flyover Junction
Flyover Junction – Tonimas Junction – Osisioma Junction.

The government has urged commuters to take advantage of the ongoing free card distribution, emphasizing that the initiative not only simplifies payment but also promotes accountability and transparency in revenue management.

In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, the administration reaffirmed its objective of positioning Abia’s transport system as a model of innovation and efficiency in Nigeria.

The cashless transition represents yet another milestone in the state’s broader infrastructure transformation agenda, signaling a determined shift toward a smarter and more connected Abia.