As Governor Otti Powers Abia’s Digital Future With Duct Infrastructure Project

EBERE UZOUKWA, PhD

Abia State has taken a bold step into the future as Governor Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at Aba Town Hall, Aba South Local Government Area, officially flagged off the Abia State Duct Infrastructure Development Project, a landmark initiative that signals the dawn of a new digital era in the State.

Described as a game changer for Abia’s economic and technological advancement, the project is designed to establish a fully connected and knowledge driven economy powered by reliable broadband access and modern digital infrastructure. Governor Otti explained that the initiative would position Abia as a key player in Nigeria’s emerging technology ecosystem, boost job creation, attract investors, and enhance service delivery across all sectors.

Key Gains for Abia and Her People

1. Digital Economy Foundation:
The underground duct system will provide the backbone for high speed internet connectivity across the State, laying a strong foundation for a vibrant and sustainable digital economy.

2. Investment and Economic Growth:
The project will attract global technology investors and multinational firms, stimulate entrepreneurship, and create new jobs while expanding real estate and commercial opportunities in Aba, Umuahia, and other urban centers.

3. Job Creation and Youth Empowerment:
Thousands of direct and indirect jobs will emerge from the project. It will also empower young innovators and startups to develop globally competitive digital solutions, strengthening Abia’s position as a hub for creativity and innovation.

4. Inclusive Prosperity:
The digital infrastructure will benefit all sectors including agriculture, trade, fashion, education, and healthcare. Farmers, artisans, and small business owners will gain online access to new markets, customers, and business opportunities.

5. Smart City Development:
The project will drive Abia’s Smart City vision by connecting residential, industrial, and commercial areas through efficient digital networks that will enhance urban living, public services, and sustainable city management.

6. Education and Healthcare Transformation:
Schools and hospitals will be digitally connected to promote e-learning, telemedicine, and data sharing, resulting in better learning outcomes, improved healthcare delivery, and greater efficiency.

7. Efficient Governance:
The initiative supports the transition to a paperless and technology based public administration, promoting transparency, accountability, and speed in service delivery across government institutions.

8. Security and Social Protection:
Enhanced digital infrastructure will power smarter surveillance systems, strengthen security operations, and improve emergency response and welfare management across the State.

9. Strategic Global Partnership:
Through collaboration with the West Indian Ocean Cable Company (WIOCC), which manages over 75,000 kilometers of terrestrial and submarine fiber networks, Abia is guaranteed world class delivery and affordable internet access for homes, schools, and businesses.

In his speech, Governor Otti emphasized that the Duct Infrastructure Development Project is not just a technological intervention but a bold declaration of Abia’s readiness to lead in innovation, productivity, and human development.

> “Our goal is to move Abia from being a consumer of technology to a creator and exporter of digital innovation. This project will transform every development front in our State and connect us to the global digital economy,” he said.

With the Duct Infrastructure Project now underway, Abia is set to experience a new wave of digital transformation, economic expansion, and inclusive prosperity. Under Governor Alex Otti’s visionary leadership, the State is no longer waiting for the future. Abia is indeed taking tomorrow today.

– Dr. Ebere Uzoukwa is the
Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Abia State on Public Affairs.