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By Madu Obi
The Anambra State ICT Agency has launched free WiFi in Awka, the state capital, as part of the state government's design to expose the state to unhindered internet services.
The Managing Director of the Anambra State ICT Agency, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata said it is in line with Governor Chukwuma Soludo's monumental effort towards transforming the entire Anambra State into a smart mega city.
According to Agbata, the launch of the pilot phase of the public WiFi initiative is tagged 'Solution Wi-Fi.'
Agbata said: "Driven by the Anambra State ICT Agency, in collaboration with Pineheight Systems Limited (PHSWEB), this pilot phase initiative, which signposts a resounding fulfillment of promises outlined in Governor Soludo's people’s manifesto, marks a significant stride towards launching the state into the digital age.
"As part of his visionary manifesto, 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.
"The ICT agency is dedicated to realizing Governor Soludo's vision of 'Everything Technology, Technology Everywhere', and this pilot phase is part of the ongoing technological transformation under the Soludo agenda.
"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.
"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.
The three 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."
He explained that to access the free Solution Wi-Fi, businesses around the designated locations and individuals, could, 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.
The code, he added, 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.
"This groundbreaking initiative underscores Anambra State's unwavering commitment to technological excellence, recently acknowledged at the National Council on Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy (NCCIDE) meeting in Kano."
The state received prestigious awards, including overall best state in digital technology development, first position for best state in digital infrastructure technology development, and first runner-up in e-government implementation and digital technology human capital development.
"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", Agbata stated.
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