Abia State Government on Monday launched the Abia Connect Card, a pioneering cashless payment system set to transform the state’s Green Shuttle Services and propel public transportation into the digital age.
Spearheaded by Governor Dr. Alex C. Otti, OFR, as part of his sweeping reform agenda, the initiative eliminates cash handling, enhances commuter convenience, and fosters transparency in a sector long plagued by inefficiencies.
Commuters can now simply tap their Abia Connect Card on payment devices aboard Green Shuttles, triggering a confirmatory “Welcome” sound upon successful validation. The system promises seamless boarding across all approved routes, reducing queues and boosting operational speed.
The inaugural card is provided free of charge, with a modest ₦50 fee applied to each subsequent top-up. Notably, neither the card nor loaded funds expire, offering long-term value. Each card is personalised, restricting use to one person per trip to prevent misuse.
Residents can obtain their cards at 10 key Central Bus Terminals, including Ariaria Junction, MCC, Osisioma Flyover, Tonimas, PH Road Aba First Bus Stop (Cemetery), Ala Oji Flyover, Ebem Park, Abiriba Junction, Akara Junction, and Uzuakoli. Registration requires an ABSSIN, ensuring secure and verifiable issuance.
Governor Otti’s administration hailed the launch as a milestone in building a “structured, technology-driven, and transparent transport system.” The move aligns with broader digital transformation efforts, mirroring national pushes for fintech integration in public services.
Comrade S.O.B. Igwe, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media, announced the rollout via official channels on March 1, emphasising its role in Abia’s renaissance. “A new Abia is here. Abia is moving forward, going digital, and staying connected,” Igwe declared.
Industry observers predict the Abia Connect Card could serve as a blueprint for other Nigerian states grappling with transport modernisation. Early adopters have praised the user-friendly design, with pilots reporting zero transaction failures.
The government urged residents to embrace the card for safer, faster travel, while assuring robust support for top-ups and queries at terminals. As Abia leads in cashless innovation, commuters stand to gain from reduced cash-related risks amid rising digital adoption across Nigeria.
Ravenewsonline reports that similar systems in Lagos and Abuja have cut revenue leakages by up to 30 per cent, hinting at potential fiscal gains for Abia’s transport ministry.
