Abia targets superior digital network

The project is a Public-Private- Partnership involving West Indian Ocean Cable Company (WIOCC), Africa’s Digital Backbone, and the Abia government.

Otti said the project was a sign of Abia’s commitment to technology infrastructure development.

“Our objective is to run an interconnected underground duct system to support the deployment of reliable broadband technology.

“We also target superior digital services and expand network for the advantage of investors and new residents.

“The duct infrastructure development initiative will on completion form the base for the accelerated growth of our digital economy.

“It will provide the structural leverage for enterprise innovation, resource sharing, and collaboration across geographical boundaries” Otti said.

He said the state’s attention to the technology sector was informed by its capacity to drive improvement and expansion in other sectors including security and social protection.

Otti said the project would play a critical role in attracting businesses, stimulating job creation and improving the ease of doing business in the state.

Dr Ayotunde Coker, Chief Executive Officer, Open Access Data Centres (OADC) a WIOCC subsidiary, said Abia created the enabling environment for WIOCC to invest in the project.

Coker highlighted the project’s significance in bridging the digital divide and advancing national broadband goals.

“Our partnership with the Abia State Government represents a shared vision to accelerate digital access and inclusion.

“This infrastructure will enable faster, more reliable connectivity that empowers communities, fuels entrepreneurship and strengthens economic growth,” he said.

He said Abia’s Duct Infrastructure Project aligns with WIOCC’s mission to build open-access, carrier-neutral digital infrastructure that supports delivery of next-generation connectivity and cloud services.

Coker said the project reinforced the company’s ongoing efforts to enable a digitally connected Africa by collaborating with governments and industry stakeholders.

He said the event was the beginning of a long-term investment in Abia’s digital future which would support improved access to data services, smart city development, and a more inclusive digital economy.

His Royal Highness Eze Chibuzo Chinyere of Ikwuorie Kingdom in Ukwa East LGA said he was excited that the big multinational company was coming to connect Abia to highspeed internet.

He said that the MoU was signed in 2024 but that the groundbreaking made him happy because it would create jobs and change the face of doing business in Abia.

Chinyere said the operation of the company would make Abia a one-stop digital hub in Nigeria while creating more than 2000 jobs in the state.

He praised Otti’s vision in initiating the project and expressed hope that the governor will transform the state beyond expectations.