Alex Otti Secures $2 Billion ICT Investment: A Transformative Leap Toward Becoming Nigeria’s Leading Digital Hub, with 200,000 Jobs Set to Revolutionize Abia State And Nigeria’s Economy
In a significant boost to Abia State’s economic development, Governor Dr. Alex Otti has successfully attracted a $2 billion investment aimed at establishing statewide internet broadband connectivity and data centers. This initiative is set to generate approximately 200,000 direct and indirect jobs, positioning Abia as a leading digital and telecommunications hub in Nigeria.
Strategic Partnership with WIOCC Group
The investment is facilitated through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Abia State Government and WIOCC Group, a prominent ICT and broadband technology company. The agreement outlines the deployment of fiber optic infrastructure across all 17 local government areas of the state, focusing on the major cities of Aba, Umuahia, and Ohafia. This infrastructure will provide high-speed internet connectivity, enhancing access to digital services and fostering economic growth.
HRM King Apostle Chibuzor Chinyere, who facilitated the introduction of the investors to Abia State, commended Governor Alex Otti for his visionary and investment-friendly leadership, which made the significant partnership possible.
“Dr. Alex Otti is truly God-sent to transform Abia State,” he stated. “At a time when many investors are leaving Nigeria, Abia is attracting them in large numbers due to the governor’s progressive and visionary leadership.”
About WIOCC Group
Established in 2008, WIOCC Group (West Indian Ocean Cable Company) operates as a wholesaler, providing capacity to international telecoms, cloud operators, content providers, and internet service providers within and outside Africa. The company offers connectivity to over 550 locations across 30 African countries, utilizing more than 75,000 km of terrestrial fiber and 200,000 km of submarine fiber-optic cable. WIOCC’s international network reach extends to 100 cities in 29 countries in Europe and more than 700 cities in 70 countries globally.
WIOCC Group is the parent company to leading digital infrastructure providers, including:
- Open Access Data Centres (OADC): Established in 2021, they are now the fastest-growing data center company in Africa, offering high-performance connectivity delivered to different data centers and other networks.
- Open Access Technical Services (OATS): Launched in 2023, they enable content delivery networks (CDNs), carriers, operators, major enterprises, and governments to outsource the building, management, operation, and support of their digital networks and infrastructure in Africa.
The group’s ownership comprises African Capital Alliance (ACA), a leading African-focused investment firm, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in developing countries, and 10 major African telecommunications operators, all ahead in their respective markets.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
Governor Otti emphasized that the project will positively impact various sectors, including education, healthcare, and governance, by enabling electronic transmission of files and improving service delivery. The initiative is expected to create over 1,000+ direct jobs, with the potential for thousands more in indirect employment opportunities.
Digital Economy Transformation
This development aligns with Governor Otti’s commitment to leveraging digital technology for economic advancement. Earlier in May 2024, he signed the “Dig Once Policy,” designed to regulate the installation of underground broadband technology assets and other public utility infrastructure. This policy aims to reduce disruptions caused by excavation activities and promote efficient deployment of digital infrastructure.
Abia’s Commitment to Infrastructure Development
The state’s dedication to infrastructural development is further demonstrated by the 2025 budget allocation, with 82% of the N750.2 billion budget earmarked for capital expenditure. This substantial investment underscores the administration’s focus on long-term projects that will benefit future generations.
Public-Private Partnership Initiatives
In October 2024, Governor Otti inaugurated the Abia State Public Private Partnership and Investment Promotion Board, aiming to create a conducive environment for business and attract further investments. This initiative reflects the administration’s proactive approach to economic development and partnership with the private sector.
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