Abia Gov Alex Otti Signs “Dig Once Policy” to Pave the Way for Tech Advancement

In a step forward for Abia State’s technological future, Governor Alex Otti has taken decisive action by signing the “Dig Once Policy,” a bold move that signifies the administration’s unwavering dedication to preparing the state for the next phase of technological advancement. 

The policy, now an official document of the Abia State Government, is expected to revolutionize the laying and installation of underground broadband technology assets, enabling widespread access to high-speed internet and other essential public utility infrastructure across urban and semi-urban areas.

The signing ceremony, held at the esteemed Government House in Umuahia, marked a pivotal moment in Abia’s trajectory towards digital empowerment. Governor Otti, in his remarks following the signing, noted the paramount importance of the policy in guiding various stakeholders, including technology companies and construction outfits, engaged in excavation and installation activities. 

By establishing clear regulations and guidelines, Otti emphasized the policy’s role in mitigating losses incurred from the destruction of underground cables and infrastructure, thereby ensuring the seamless provision of internet services to the populace.

“The focus is to make high-speed internet widely accessible to individuals and businesses in ways that support the adoption of smart enterprise initiatives, improved innovation, and expanded access to global markets,” he said, elucidating the overarching objectives of the policy. 

“Our target is the young people who are actively migrating to the digital space in pursuit of new opportunities. This policy will give them wings to fly as high-speed internet services become commonplace in all parts of the State.

“The Dig Once Policy is therefore looking beyond just laying of underground cables and pipes. The goal is more far-reaching as we hope to drive job creation for our young people through this policy, fight poverty, and make life better for everyone, no matter where they live.

“The Dig Once Policy will be our most effective tool of coordinating all excavation and trenching projects along utility corridors in ways that avoid duplication of efforts and also protect our road infrastructure from unintended consequences. Through the erection of underground ducts, service providers can seamlessly deploy their service infrastructure at reduced costs in finances and time.”

This visionary outlook is buoyed by the transformative potential of ubiquitous high-speed internet connectivity in driving socioeconomic development and fostering inclusive growth across the state.

Previously, Professor Kenneth Kalu, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), highlighted that the policy aims to safeguard Abia roads from frequent digging for cable or pipe installation, thus preventing their deterioration.

Otti also commended the collaborative efforts of various ministries, including Digital Economy and SMEs, Science and Technology, and Works, in crafting the policy. This inter-ministerial collaboration denotes the administration’s holistic approach to leveraging technology for economic empowerment and prosperity. 

He reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to supporting the burgeoning digital economy and empowering young entrepreneurs to thrive in the digital space.

Furthermore, he elaborated on the policy’s multifaceted objectives, emphasizing its pivotal role in coordinating excavation and trenching projects along utility corridors. By minimizing duplication of efforts and safeguarding road infrastructure, the policy aims to streamline project implementation while reducing costs and time. 

The signing ceremony also saw the inauguration of the implementation council of the policy, led by Deputy Governor Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu. 

This landmark event heralded a new era of coordinated action and concerted efforts toward realizing Abia State’s vision of technological transformation and sustainable development. With a clear roadmap in place, Abia is expected to emerge as a beacon of innovation in the Southeast, setting the pace for other states in the region.