In an effort to modernize public transportation in the state, the Abia State Government has started the full implementation of the Abia Connect Card, a cashless payment system for the Green Shuttle Bus Service.
The goal of the program, which is being led by the Ministry of Transportation under Governor Alex Otti’s leadership, is to give locals a smooth commute.
The government characterized the development as a turning point in its efforts to create a digitized, transparent, and effective transportation ecosystem in a statement released on Sunday by Okey Kanu, the Commissioner for Information, on behalf of the Abia Ministry of Information handles.
The Abia Connect Card, commonly referred to as the “Abia State Card,” reportedly removes the annoyances of cash payments, such as delays, disagreements over change, and income leaks.
“We are consciously avoiding the inconveniences associated with using cash. It only takes one tap to commute with the Abia Connect Card. It is effective, dependable, and made to guarantee that everyone can use our public transportation system,” the statement said.
According to the government, citizens can currently get the first card for free at authorized agent locations and designated Green Shuttle ports in Aba and Umuahia.
In order to obtain the card, prospective users must provide their ABSSIN; those without one can register using the Abia Pay portal.
Upon boarding, commuters must tap their card on the payment device after funding it, subject to a ₦50 top-up charge. A confirmation sound will ring to confirm the successful payment.
It was mentioned that the Green Shuttle Service runs both intra-city and inter-city routes, the card has no expiration date, and money loaded onto it is always valid.
According to Kanu, the inter-city prices are ₦800 for Aba–Umuahia and ₦1,000 for Umuahia–Ohafia. On certain routes, city services in Aba and Umuahia are provided for a fixed fee of ₦150.
The state administration said that the move would improve accountability and transparency in the transportation sector and encouraged commuters to take advantage of the ongoing free card distribution.
Making Abia State’s transportation system a shining example of creativity, effectiveness, and openness in Nigeria is still our goal.
The message went on to say, “I urge every resident to get their cards and participate in this revolutionary journey towards a smarter Abia.”
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