MTN Nigeria has entered into a strategic partnership with the Government of Abia State to expand broadband infrastructure, promote digital inclusion, and spur economic growth across the state.
The agreement formalised at a signing ceremony in Umuahia was led by MTN Nigeria CEO, Dr. Karl Toriola, and Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti.
It marks a significant step towards deepening collaboration between the public and private sectors to unlock technology-driven development.
Terms of agreement
Under the terms of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), MTN Nigeria will roll out initiatives designed to improve connectivity and support the state’s digital transformation agenda.
These include:
- Statewide 3G, 4G, and 5G network expansion to enhance high-speed internet access
- Device financing for civil servants, aimed at boosting digital inclusion
- Cloud computing services to support government efficiency and digitisation
- Digital storefronts for SMEs and merchants in Aba, Umuahia, Ohafia, and other commercial centres
- A dedicated e-commerce platform for Aba, enabling local businesses to reach national and global markets with no onboarding cost
Abia digital economy
Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Otti described the partnership as a “bold move to position Abia State as a digitally enabled economy and innovation hub.”
He reiterated the state’s readiness to provide the support required to ensure long-term success, particularly in the areas of youth empowerment, governance and economic competitiveness.
MTN’s CEO, Dr. Karl Toriola, said the partnership aligns with the company’s mission to deliver the benefits of a modern connected life, and described the initiative as a blend of infrastructure investment, innovation, and public-private collaboration.
“At MTN, we are guided by the belief that everyone deserves the benefits of a modern connected life.
“With Abia State, this is a bold step in delivering that vision, combining infrastructure, innovation and collaboration to build a more inclusive, efficient and empowered society,” he said
Top MTN executives including Lynda Saint-Nwafor (Chief Enterprise Business Officer), Shoyinka Shodunke (Chief Information Officer), and Omotayo Ojutalayo (General Manager, Enterprise Business Development) were also present at the signing.
MTN’s partnership with Abia State comes at a time many states are having issues with telecom operators over taxes, which continue to hinder access to telecom services.
- Just recently, the Kogi state government shut down the facilities of MTN telecommunication in the state for alleged failure to comply with its tax obligation and related matters.
- The matter was later resolved and MTN’s facilities reopened after days of throwing the State’s residence into blackout.
- According to the Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) Engr. Gbenga Adebayo, the issues of multiple taxation and high cost of Right of Way across states have been the major obstacles to telecom infrastructure rollout in the country.
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