The Abia State Government has announced a temporary and immediate cessation of all excavation/trenching activities in the State until a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) is selected to oversee the implementation of the Policy.
In a statement by the Commissioner, Ministry of Digital Economy and SME’s/Secretary Dig Once Implementation Council Hon. Matthew C. Ekwuribe said the signing of the Dig-Once Policy by Governor Alex Otti marks a significant milestone in the advancement of Telecommunications and Digital Infrastructure in Abia State.
According to him, the policy will serve as a legal framework to guide the deployment of telecommunications infrastructure across the state, streamlining processes, ensuring efficient use of resources, and ongoing and harmonizing all Fibre-optic Ducts.
The release also revealed that the measure is important to ensure proper coordination and adherence to the policy guidelines as well as to safeguard the interests of both the public and private sectors.
The statement noted that anyone, corporate or individual, who violates this Policy, will be sanctioned and penalized in accordance with the law.
The Government urged full cooperation from all MNOs and ISPs, as the State strives to harmonize all ducts and create a conducive and decent environment for all.