The Anambra State government has announced the launch of the pilot phase of its Public Wi-Fi initiative, tagged ‘Solution Wi-Fi’ aimed at transforming the state into a smart mega city.
Revealing the initiative, the state Information and Communications Technology (ICT) agency underscored the unwavering dedication of Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo to steering the state towards a future propelled by technology.
According to a statement signed by the MD/CEO of the Anambra State ICT Agency, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, CFA, it was articulated that the collaborative efforts between the agency and Pineheight Systems Limited (PHSWEB) have propelled this pilot phase initiative forward.
Agbata added that the initiative, heralding a tangible realization of the pledges articulated in the People’s Manifesto, represents a momentous leap towards ushering the state into the digital era.
“As part of his visionary manifesto detailed on Pages 20 and 33, Governor 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,” he said.
Agbata affirmed the agency’s steadfast commitment to actualizing Governor Soludo’s vision of “Everything Technology, Technology Everywhere,” emphasizing that the pilot phase stands as a pivotal component within the continuous technological evolution championed by the Soludo Agenda.
Mr Agbata states, “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.”
He emphasized that 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.
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Agbata further explained that all 3 locations are not only strategic but quite important for students and businesses alike. “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,” he said.
Agbata emphasized that this groundbreaking initiative underscores the state’s steadfast dedication to technological excellence, a commitment recently recognized through prestigious accolades.
Anambra State was honoured as the Overall Best State in Digital Technology Development, secured the First Position for Best State in Digital Infrastructure Technology Development, and clinched the First Runner-up position in e-government Implementation and Digital Technology Human Capital Development at the NCCIDE meeting in Kano.
These achievements vividly illustrate the state’s unwavering pursuit of technological advancement through innovative initiatives like the current pilot phase.
He reiterated that Anambra State proudly takes its place on the technology map of Nigeria, a testament to Governor 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.
“Additionally, contact Nwanodu Angela, on 08037195787, for media inquiries,” he concluded.
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