Abia State Nigeria Goes Cashless: Alex Otti Launches Abia Connect Card for Green Shuttle Electric Buses

Abia State has taken a significant step forward in modernizing public transportation with the full rollout of the Abia Connect Card on March 2, 2026. This cashless payment system now powers the Green Shuttle Bus Service, allowing commuters to tap and ride without handling physical cash.

The Green Shuttle Bus Service represents a flagship initiative under Governor Alex Otti’s administration. Launched in late 2025 with the commissioning of the first batch of 20 electric buses by WTO Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the program introduced state-owned electric vehicles designed to promote sustainability, reduce carbon emissions, and provide cleaner, more efficient travel.

These buses, which are compliant for people with disabilities, offer a range of 400 to 450 kilometers per charge and operate on key inter-city and intra-city routes connecting major areas such as Umuahia, Aba, and Ohafia.After an initial period of free rides to familiarize residents with the system, the service transitioned to subsidized commercial operations starting March 1, 2026. Fares remain affordable: ₦800 for trips between Umuahia and Aba, ₦1,000 for Umuahia to Ohafia, and a flat ₦150 for intra-city routes within cities like Aba and Umuahia.

The state plans to expand the fleet toward 100 electric buses, with dedicated terminals and charging infrastructure supporting both public and eventual private electric vehicle use.The introduction of the Abia Connect Card enhances this eco-friendly transport network by minimizing fraud, improving revenue accountability, and enabling better data collection for route optimization and service improvements. Cards are available for free initially at designated terminals, including locations in Aba (such as Ariaria Junction and Osisioma Flyover) and Umuahia, with easy top-up options.

This combined effort underscores Abia State’s push toward a more digital, inclusive, and environmentally conscious future for public mobility, earning praise for restoring order, safety, and dignity to commuting in the region.