The Abia State Government has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding with MTN Nigeria aimed at accelerating the state’s digital transformation drive before the end of the year.
Announcing the development after the State Executive Council meeting in Umuahia, the Commissioner for Information described the partnership as the result of months of negotiations with MTN and outlined six critical areas the agreement will cover.
The first component targets statewide broadband access, aiming to cover 100 percent of Abia’s population and geographical space with internet connectivity by year-end. Another major aspect involves a device ownership scheme through which MTN will finance work tools like laptops,smartphones, and Wi-Fi devices for civil servants to boost productivity and support the administration’s digital agenda.
To strengthen e-governance, MTN will also provide cloud services and computing infrastructure for the state’s operations. A digital mall focused on supporting small businesses and the informal sector is also in the works, designed to leverage digital tools to stimulate SME growth.
In addition, the deal includes the rollout of 4G and 5G internet services in Umuahia, Aba, and Ohafia, as well as the creation of a digital marketplace for online commerce and governance.
The commissioner said the initiative would enable rural dwellers to engage in business remotely, stimulate productivity, and drive socioeconomic development. He added that once fully implemented, the project could significantly transform Abia’s economy and governance landscape.
Highlighting the urgency of such an initiative, he cited a 2020 global report which noted that 58 percent of Nigerians lacked internet access, placing the country just below Pakistan and ahead of Bangladesh in global rankings.
In a separate update, the commissioner praised Abia Warriors Football Club for their strong performance in the Nigerian Professional Football League. With just one match left, the club is close to qualifying for the CAF Confederation Cup;a feat he said reflects the positive momentum in governance across the state.
