Abia State governor Alex Otti has signed into operation the “Dig Once Policy” to guide excavation, laying of cables and installation of underground utilities, infrastructure and technology assets in the state.
“The policy is aimed at reducing losses arising from destruction of underground cables and other infrastructure in the course of construction projects and subsequent disruption in internet services,” he said.
At the event in Umuahia, the state capital, yesterday, the governor, underscored the need for technology companies, construction firms and others entities to be properly guided on the policy.
“The policy will regulate and direct the laying and installation of underground broadband technology infrastructure for individual and enterprise use in our urban and semi-urban communities,” he said.
Otti said the policy is a product of strategic inter-ministerial collaboration directed by his office with the active involvement of the ministries of Digital Economy, Small and Medium-scale Enterprises, Science and Technology, and Works.
He observed that the event signaled the commitment of his administration to tap into the endless opportunities and promises of the world of high-speed internet and telecommunications services.
He said young people who are actively migrating to the digital space in pursuit of new opportunities will benefit from the policy as it will make high-speed internet services available across the state.
Otti, who noted that the policy had become one of the landmarks of the administration, added that it is beyond laying of underground cables and pipes as the goal is more far-reaching.
“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,” he added.
Earlier, the chairman of the council for the policy and the deputy governor of the state, Ikechukwu Emetu noted the importance of the policy in view of the vast ongoing work in the state.
Represented by the secretary to the state government, Kenneth Kalu, he assured that the council will drive the full implementation of the policy.
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