The Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has reaffirmed his commitment to a technologically advanced future for the state, through the launch of the pilot phase of the public Wi-Fi initiative tagged “Solution Wi-Fi”.
The governor said the development was part of his efforts towards transforming Anambra State into a smart mega city.
A statement by the Managing Director/CEO of the Anambra State ICT Agency, Chukwuemeka Agbata, on Friday, said the initiative, driven by the ICT agency in collaboration with Pineheight Systems Limited, signposts a resounding fulfilment of promises outlined towards launching the state into the digital age.
Agbata explained that the agency is dedicated to realising the state’s vision of “Everything technology, technology everywhere”, adding that this pilot phase is part of the ongoing technological transformation under the Soludo administration.
He said, “As part of his visionary manifesto detailed on Pages 20 and 33, Soludo pledged to provide cheap (and ultimately free) Wi-Fi hotspots in public places for the takeoff of the State’s emergence into the digital age and work with development partners to deploy broadband access to schools across all levels and public libraries to improve access to the internet for all and continue to build the digital tribe.
“The broader vision includes collaboration with development partners to provide broadband access to schools and public libraries, thereby enhancing internet accessibility across all strata of the society.
“The Solution Wi-Fi initiative, now operational in three strategic locations in the state capital Awka namely Aroma Junction, Book Foundation, and UNIZIK back gate, will see users within these locations enjoy one hour of free internet access, every 24 hours, during the pilot phase.”
He further explained that all three locations are not only strategic but quite important for students and businesses alike, adding that the deployment of the Solution Wi-Fi to these areas will no doubt boost educational activities while businesses can also leverage it to enhance their online presence.
“High speed and free internet access can also help our teeming young population to begin to create content that will yield revenue amongst other prospects, the opportunities are endless.
“To access the free Solution Wi-Fi, businesses around the designated locations and individuals, can upon activation of their Wi-Fi, and selection of ‘Solution Wi-Fi’, follow the SMS authentication prompt, to create a username (phone number).
“After which they will receive an auto-generated code via SMS. This code serves as the password, granting them one hour of fast internet access per day, with an effective range of up to 200 meters, depending on the user’s device.
“This groundbreaking initiative underscores Anambra State’s unwavering commitment to technological excellence, recently acknowledged at the National Council on Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy meeting in Kano, where the state received prestigious awards, including Overall Best State in Digital Technology Development, First Position for Best State in Digital Infrastructure Technology Development, and First Runner-up in e-government Implementation and Digital Technology Human Capital Development.
“Anambra State proudly takes its place on the technology map of Nigeria, a testament to Soludo’s steadfast commitment and investment in technology, and the State ICT Agency reaffirms its commitment to a future marked by technological advancement, innovation, and unparalleled progress for the state,” Agbata added.
Governor Soludo had assured the youths of the state that he would address their concerns and give them a better future last November.
According to a statement by the Commissioner for Information, Sir Paul Nwosu, the governor stated this during the maiden youth conference held in Awka.
The statement noted that Soludo made it clear that his administration has the interest of the youths at heart and will continue to provide and plan for the youths of Anambra State.