The Abia State Government has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with MTN Nigeria to fast-track its digital transformation efforts. The agreement was formally announced by the State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Okey Kanu, during a press briefing in Umuahia on Monday.
The MoU follows months of negotiations and is poised to significantly reshape Abia’s digital landscape through a multifaceted partnership with MTN.
Six Core Areas of Collaboration
Mr. Kanu outlined six critical areas covered under the MoU, each targeting specific elements of digital infrastructure and governance:
1. Statewide Broadband Coverage
The partnership aims to deliver 100% broadband coverage across Abia before the end of the year, ensuring even remote communities gain access to high-speed internet.
“The first area is coverage of 100 per cent of the population and space of the whole Abia with broadband access before year-end,” Kanu stated.
2. Device Ownership for Civil Servants
MTN will finance a device ownership scheme to equip civil servants with laptops, smartphones, and Wi-Fi tools—enhancing their productivity and enabling smoother government operations.
“MTN Nigeria Limited will finance the acquisition of laptops, smartphones, and Wi-Fi devices for Abia State civil servants,” Kanu explained.
3. Enhancing Digital Governance
Cloud services and IT infrastructure will be provided to modernize public administration, improve transparency, and elevate service delivery in the state.
4. Establishment of Abia Digital Mall
A digital mall will be created to support SMEs and the informal sector by providing access to tools and platforms that will expand their market reach and operational efficiency.
“The digital mall will drive SME growth by leveraging multiple digital tools,” Kanu said.
5. Rollout of 4G and 5G Services
MTN will deploy 4G and 5G networks in key urban centers—Umuahia, Aba, and Ohafia—by year-end, boosting internet speed and reliability for users and businesses.
6. Launch of a Digital Marketplace
A comprehensive digital marketplace will support both e-governance and online commerce, aligning with Governor Alex Otti’s vision to modernize the state and enhance public engagement.
A New Digital Era for Abia
Speaking at the signing, Governor Alex Otti described the MoU as a “bold move to position Abia as a digitally enabled economy and innovation hub.” He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to youth empowerment, efficient governance, and improved economic competitiveness.
MTN Nigeria CEO Dr. Karl Toriola emphasized the company’s dedication to expanding digital access.
“This partnership blends infrastructure, innovation, and collaboration to create a more inclusive and empowered society,” Toriola stated.
Senior MTN officials, including Chief Enterprise Business Officer Lynda Saint-Nwafor, CIO Shoyinka Shodunke, and GM Enterprise Business Development Omotayo Ojutalayo, were also present at the ceremony.
Empowering Rural Communities and Boosting the Economy
Kanu highlighted the socio-economic potential of the initiative, particularly for rural communities.
“This project will enable rural residents to engage in commerce from remote locations, boosting productivity and stimulating economic growth,” he said.
He added that the digital transformation plan is a game-changer for the state and praised the broader momentum under the current administration.
Kanu also applauded the Abia Warriors Football Club for their impressive performance, noting that they are close to qualifying for the CAF Confederation Cup—an achievement he says reflects the state’s overall progress.
“Their performance mirrors the positive transformation taking place in Abia State,” he concluded.
The partnership with MTN is expected to mark a major turning point in Abia’s journey toward becoming a leading digital economy in Nigeria.
