By Angela Nwanodu
As Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR, marks three years in office, Anambra State has emerged as a beacon of technological transformation and digital progress.
His administration’s strategic investments in ICT have redefined governance, boosted economic growth, and positioned the state as a digital hub in Nigeria.
Driving Digital Infrastructure for a Connected Anambra
From facilitating the laying of fiber optic cables across the state to deploying free public Wi-Fi hotspots, Governor Soludo has prioritized digital connectivity.
Notably, Anambra became the first southeastern state to implement zero Right-of-Way (RoW) charges, ensuring faster broadband expansion and improved access to high-speed internet. Many other States have followed suit.
To bridge the digital divide, the administration has provided free public Wi-Fi hotspots in key institutions and strategic locations across the state capital, enhancing business and educational activities while boosting the economy. Locations include:
- Jerome Udorji Secretariat Complex, Awka
- Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Igbariam Campus
- Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka
- Federal Polytechnic, Oko
- Peter University, Achina/Onneh
Strategic business and public hotspots within Awka and other urban centres
This initiative is enhancing digital accessibility, empowering students, entrepreneurs, and civil servants with seamless internet access for learning, innovation, and productivity.
E-Governance and Digitization of State Processes
Under Governor Soludo’s leadership, Anambra has fully embraced e-governance, ensuring transparency, efficiency, and professionalism in government operations.
Key achievements include:
- Digitization of ANSEC Meetings – Eliminating costly paperwork, improving efficiency, confidentiality, and enhancing security.
- Standardized State Domain (anambrastate.gov.ng) – Ensuring the use of 2nd level government domain name to promote professionalism, curb fraud, and uphold a unified digital identity for state MDAs and digital assets.
- SolutionLens Platform – (Accessible at lens.anambrastate.gov.ng) A citizen-to-government digital engagement tool, bridging communication gaps between citizens and government, and enhancing service delivery.
Empowering Civil Servants and Citizens with Digital Skills
Recognizing the importance of digital literacy, Governor Soludo’s administration has:
- Trained civil servants on the use of ICT tools for improved service delivery.
- Trained civil society organizations on cybersecurity awareness and access to digital tools.
- Distributed over 2,500 laptops to civil servants, political appointees, local government Heads of Budget and Planning, head teachers, and principals—enhancing digital governance, federal alignment, and smart education initiatives.
National Recognition for Anambra’s Digital Transformation
Anambra State’s commitment to technological excellence earned national recognition, securing four prestigious awards at the 11th National Council on Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy (NCCIDE) meeting held in Kano, namely:
- Overall Winner – Best State in Digital Technology Development
- 1st Position – Best State in Digital Infrastructure Technology Development
- 1st Runner-up – e-Government Implementation
- 1st Runner-up – Digital Technology Human Capital Development
Strategic Partnerships for a Digital Future
Anambra’s tech-driven journey has been bolstered by key partnerships, including:
- NITDA Digital Center in Isuofia – Laying the foundation for Smart Schools across the state.
- Collaboration with the Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN) – to improve connectivity and reduce internet costs.
Strengthening Cybersecurity and Digital Identity
To enhance data security and digital inclusion, the administration has introduced:
- Anambra Cloud – A secure, centralized digital storage for state digital assets. Anambra data remains in Anambra.
- E-ID Card Platform – Integrating digital identity with state services for enhanced authentication.
- Advanced cybersecurity measures – Including security tools, incident response plans, and automated disaster recovery systems to safeguard Anambra’s digital infrastructure.
What’s Next?
Governor Soludo’s bold ICT agenda has positioned Anambra for sustainable development. With ongoing initiatives such as:
- Smart School programs
- Land digitization through ANAMGIS
- Expanded digital services across multiple sectors
Anambra is on course to becoming Nigeria’s leading digital economy.
As the administration moves forward, the commitment remains steadfast—leveraging technology for sustainable growth, improved governance, and a smarter Anambra.
The Anambra State ICT Agency remains committed to driving this vision forward while staying true to the Everything Technology, Technology Everywhere agenda.
We celebrate this milestone, we look forward to even greater strides in the years ahead.
Congratulations, Mr. Governor!
**Angela Nwanodu is PRO, Anambra State ICT Agency.
