In a groundbreaking move towards digital empowerment, Niger State is setting a new precedent in fostering technological advancement. Under the visionary leadership of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, the Executive Council has approved a transformative initiative that promises to revolutionize digital infrastructure within the state.
At the heart of this initiative lies a bold decision to waive the Right of Way (RoW) charges for a private fibre optic company, paving the way for unprecedented progress in digital connectivity. This landmark decision underscores the government’s commitment to creating an environment conducive to private sector investment and innovation.
In exchange for this groundbreaking RoW charge exemption, the private fibre optic company has committed to deploying a 40-kilometre fibre metro ring across the state. But the benefits don’t end there. The company will also provide public Wi-Fi services, Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) connectivity, fixed telephony, and internet access at all state-owned tertiary institutions within the metro ring. This holistic approach to digital infrastructure promises to bridge the gap and empower communities with enhanced access to information and communication technologies.
Despite the standard RoW charge in Niger State remaining at 145 naira per linear meter, as outlined in the 2022 gazette of the consolidated revenue administration law, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago and his cabinet members recognize the paramount importance of digital infrastructure in driving economic growth and societal progress.
The Commissioner for Communications Technology and Digital Economy has reiterated the government’s commitment to initiatives that prioritize the welfare and interests of the people. He emphasized the significance of public-private partnerships in advancing digital infrastructure and affirmed the state’s readiness to support proposals that do not rely on state resources for financing.
Niger State is not just embracing change; it is leading it. By positioning itself as a Sub-national prototype State, the government is inviting innovation and collaboration with the private sector to pilot and scale transformative solutions. This forward-thinking approach cements Niger State’s status as a trailblazer in the digital economy landscape, poised to unlock new opportunities and propel itself towards a prosperous future.
Stay tuned as we witness the unfolding of this historic journey towards digital empowerment in Niger State.