Charting a bold cause towards a digitally empowered future, the Imo State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IHS Nigeria, through its subsidiary Global Independent Connect Limited (GICL).
This landmark agreement, sealed in Lagos on February 13, 2025, sets the stage for an ambitious 90km fibre optic infrastructure deployment. The initiative is poised to unlock vast economic and technological opportunities, fostering innovation, connectivity, and business growth across the state.
To further the agreement, a kickoff meeting was held on February 27, 2025, at the Ministry of Digital Economy and E-Government office in Imo State, with key stakeholders from IHS Nigeria and Heartland Fibre Optic Ltd
In his opening remarks, the Commissioner for Digital Economy and E-Government, Dr. Chimezie Amadi, expressed enthusiasm about the project’s impact. He announced that IHS, through Heartland Fibre Optics Limited, has committed to deploying 90km of fibre optic cable to connect multiple base stations across various local government areas in Imo State.
He emphasized that this enterprising project reinstates Governor Hope Uzodinma’s dedication to the state’s digital transformation agenda. He noted that the Governor has consistently championed policies that integrate technology into governance, and everyday life in Imo. This fibre optic deployment aligns with his vision of positioning Imo State as a leading digital hub in Nigeria, fostering economic growth, innovation, and digital inclusivity. The Governor’s administration has prioritized investments in digital infrastructure to bridge the technological divide and create new opportunities for businesses and individuals across the state.
Dr. Amadi outlined the economic benefits of the initiative, noting that the project would create jobs, as local supervisors would be onboard to manage the deployment. He also stressed that businesses in Imo would be able to scale up operations by leveraging high-speed broadband connectivity, leading to improved efficiency and service delivery.
Reassuring IHS of the government’s full support, Dr. Amadi pledged that the state would provide an enabling environment for the seamless execution of the project.
“We will ensure there are no community disputes or tax force issues. It is our responsibility to coordinate with local government authorities and enforcement agencies to guarantee smooth operations for the benefit of the state,” he stated.
Representing GICL, Temitayo Oyeleke reaffirmed IHS Nigeria’s commitment to delivering a top-tier fibre optic network, citing the company’s track record of deploying over 15,000km of fibre infrastructure nationwide. “We are known for quality and efficiency, and Imo State will receive the best service from us,” Oyeleke assured.
Director of Heartland FM, Dr. Uzoma, along with his team members, emphasized high expectations for the deployment, assuring all stakeholders that they would be readily available to address any challenges as they arise.
Amadi stated that the main purpose of the kick-off meeting was to ensure all parties had a clear understanding of the project’s route, the number of base stations to be connected, and their specific locations to estimate the total coverage area. He noted that a detailed presentation on route mapping was also conducted to guarantee the precise execution of the project. He assured that his team would be readily available to address any challenges that may arise.
Dr. Amadi concluded the meeting with a strong emphasis on safety and cultural sensitivity, advising the deployment teams to adhere to industry standards while respecting the customs of the local communities they would operate in.
This collaboration between the Imo State Government and IHS Nigeria represents a major step towards digital transformation, economic empowerment, and enhanced connectivity in the state. As the project progresses, it is expected to position Imo as a leading hub for technological innovation in Nigeria.
