The Abia State Government and the West Indian Ocean Cable Company held a groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday in Aba for the Abia State Duct Infrastructure Project, designed to expand broadband access, enhance digital inclusion, and improve last-mile connectivity across the state.
In his remarks, Governor Alex Otti commended WIOCC for partnering with the state to drive Abia’s digital transformation agenda, emphasising his administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for innovation and investment.
He noted that the project would play a critical role in attracting businesses, stimulating job creation, and improving the ease of doing business in the state.
“Today’s event, the flag-off of the Duct Infrastructure Development Project, has been set up to highlight our commitment to the development of the state’s technology infrastructure outline.
“The overarching objective is to run an interconnected underground duct system to support the deployment of reliable broadband technology, superior digital services, and expand the network of advantages for investors and new residents.
“The Duct Infrastructure Development Initiative will, on completion, form the base for the accelerated growth of our digital economy, providing the structural leverage for enterprise innovation, resource sharing, and collaboration across geographical boundaries.”
Earlier in his speech, the host of the event and Chief Executive Officer of Open Access Data Centres, a subsidiary of WIOCC, Dr Ayotunde Coker, highlighted the project’s significance in bridging the digital divide and advancing national broadband goals, stating, “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.”
In his remarks, the Abia State Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation said, “The groundbreaking ceremony of the Abia State Duct Infrastructure Project marks not just the beginning of a new infrastructure initiative, but the continuation of a revolution — a revolution of transformation, innovation, and bold leadership that is sweeping across every corner of our beloved state.
“This project rekindles the faith of investors, both local and foreign, and stands as a shining example of a digital future. This is the future we are building — a future where Abia is not just seen but felt across Nigeria and beyond.”
In their separate remarks, the Chief Strategy Officer to the Governor, Mr Chinenye Mba-Uzoukwu; Apostle Chinyere Gift Chibuzor of Omega Power Ministries; and a representative of Nokia, Mike Okwechime, extolled the governor’s leadership, noting that the project would positively impact the state.
The Abia State Duct Infrastructure Project aligns with WIOCC’s mission to build open-access, carrier-neutral digital infrastructure that supports the delivery of next-generation connectivity and cloud services.
