Abia converts free green shuttle to fare service with 50% subsidy

On Monday, March 9, 2026, the Abia State Government announced that its Green Shuttle electric bus service, which had been operating as a free pilot scheme since late 2025, has officially transitioned into a commercial service with a 50% fare subsidy.

This move is part of Governor Alex Otti’s strategy to provide a sustainable, modern, and affordable alternative to fossil-fuel-powered transport as petrol prices hit the N1,300 mark.

Key Details of the New Fare System
The transition, which technically began on March 1, 2026, introduces a structured pricing model aimed at long-term operational efficiency:

Subsidized Rates: The Governor approved a 50% subsidy on all routes.

Umuahia to Aba: N800

Umuahia to Ohafia: N1,000

Intra-city (within Aba/Umuahia): Flat rate of N150

Cashless Only: The system is fully digital. Passengers must use the Abia Connect Card (also called the Abia State Card) or their standard ATM cards. Cash payments are not accepted to ensure transparency and prevent revenue leakage.Mandatory Requirement: To obtain the Abia Connect Card, residents must provide their Abia State Social Insurance Number (ABSSIN).

Operational Infrastructure
To support the rollout and assist commuters with the new digital requirements:

Bus Shelters: 70 shelters have been established so far (30 in Umuahia and 40 in Aba).

Support Staff: Enumerators and "touch-and-pay" agents have been deployed to these shelters to help passengers register for ABSSIN and load funds onto their cards.

Reach: Since the pilot began on December 24, 2025, the service has already transported over 202,600 passengers.

Why the Change?
The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, emphasized that while the free rides were a necessary "familiarization" phase, moving to a subsidized commercial model ensures the state can maintain the fleet, expand routes, and keep the service running without relying solely on government grants.

The electric buses, which were commissioned by WTO Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, are also PWD-compliant, featuring ramps and specialized seating for persons with disabilities.

To get your Abia Connect Card for the Green Shuttle service, you can visit any of the 70 designated bus shelters and terminals across Aba and Umuahia.

Where to Get the Card
The first card is issued free of charge at the following major locations:

In Aba (40 Shelters total):

Ariaria Junction

Osisioma Flyover (and the Flyover Ala Oji area)

Tonimas Junction

MCC Junction

Cemetery Bus Stop (Port Harcourt Road)

Uratta Junction and Ohabiam Bus Stop

In Umuahia (30 Shelters total):

Isi Gate Terminal (Central Hub)

Government Secretariat (JAC Building)

Tower Junction

Ubakala Road

Registration Requirements
ABSSIN is Mandatory: You must provide your Abia State Social Insurance Number (ABSSIN) to receive the card.

How to register for ABSSIN:

At the Bus Stop: Enumerators are stationed at the bus shelters to help you register for your ABSSIN on the spot if you don't have one.

Online: You can register yourself via the AbiaPay portal (abiapay.com).

Loading Funds: "Touch-and-pay" agents are also available at the shelters to help you top up your card. Note that while the card is free, a N50 transaction fee applies to subsequent top-ups.

Quick Fare Reference (50% Subsidized)
Intra-city (Aba or Umuahia): N150

Aba to Umuahia: N800

Umuahia to Ohafia: N1,000

The service is fully cashless, so you will need to tap your card on the payment device upon boarding to validate your ride.