The Abia State Government has launched the Abia Connect Card for the Green Shuttle Bus Service as part of efforts to build a digital and transparent transport system.

The initiative, driven by the Ministry of Transportation under Governor Alex Otti’s administration, is aimed at providing a seamless commuting experience for residents.

In a statement issued on Sunday by the Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, the government described the rollout as a milestone in its plan to develop an 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 free and can be obtained at designated Green Shuttle terminals and authorised agent locations in Aba and Umuahia.

Residents are required to present their ABSSIN to receive the card, while those without one can register through the Abia Pay portal.

After funding the card, subject to a ₦50 top-up charge, commuters are expected to tap it on the payment device upon boarding, with a confirmation sound indicating successful payment.

The government stated that the card does not expire and funds loaded onto it remain valid without any time limitation. The Green Shuttle Service operates both inter-city and intra-city routes.

Inter-city fares include Aba–Umuahia at ₦800 and Umuahia–Ohafia at ₦1,000, while intra-city services within Aba and Umuahia run at a flat rate of ₦150 on designated routes.

The state government urged residents to take advantage of the free card distribution, noting 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.