The West Indian Ocean Cable Company (WIOCC), provider of interconnected, carrier-scale digital infrastructure and managed network services in Africa, has partnered with the Abia State Government, to successfully hold the Abia State Duct Infrastructure Project Groundbreaking Ceremony on Wednesday, at the Aba Town Hall.
The event marked the commencement of a transformative infrastructure project designed to expand broadband access, enhance digital inclusion and improve last-mile connectivity across Abia State.
Executive Governor of Abia State, His Excellency Dr. Alex Otti, graced the occasion as Special Guest of Honour, including Traditional Rulers and members of the Aba business community, while Chief Executive Officer of Open Access Data Centres (a WIOCC Group Company), Dr. Ayotunde Coker, served as Chief Host. The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, representatives of mobile network operators, internet service providers, technology stakeholders and members of the media.
In his remarks, Governor Alex Otti commended WIOCC for partnering with the state to drive Abia’s digital transformation agenda, emphasising the administration’s commitment to enabling an environment for innovation and investment. He noted that the project would play a critical role in attracting businesses, stimulating job creation and improving the ease of doing business in the state.
Dr. Ayotunde Coker highlighted the project’s significance in bridging the digital divide and advancing national broadband goals. “Our partnership with the Abia State Government represents a shared vision to accelerate digital access and inclusion. This infrastructure will enable faster, more reliable connectivity that empowers communities, fuels entrepreneurship and strengthens economic growth,” he said.
The Abia State Duct Infrastructure Project aligns with WIOCC’s mission to build open-access, carrier-neutral digital infrastructure that supports the delivery of next-generation connectivity and cloud services. It reinforces the company’s ongoing efforts to enable a digitally connected Africa by collaborating with governments and industry stakeholders.
The groundbreaking event symbolises the beginning of a long-term investment in Abia State’s digital future, one that will improve access to data services, support smart city development, and contribute to a more inclusive digital economy.
