Dig-once policy: Otti suspends all excavation, trenching activities in Abia
By Jeffrey Agbo
Abia State Governor Alex Otti has announced a temporary and immediate cessation of all excavation/trenching activities in the state until a special purpose vehicle (SPV) is selected to oversee the implementation of the dig-once policy.
This was announced in a statement on Friday by the Commissioner of Digital Economy and SMEs/Secretary Dig Once Implementation Council, Matthew Ekwuribe.
The statement said, “The signing of the Dig-Once Policy by His Excellency, the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, recently, marks a significant milestone in the advancement of Telecommunications and Digital Infrastructure in Abia State.
“This policy will serve as a legal framework to guide the deployment of telecommunications infrastructure across the state, streamlining processes and ensuring efficient use of resources and harmonising all Fibre-optic Ducts.
“The Dig-Once Policy holds immense importance for our State’s future development. By coordinating/harmonising excavation and trenching activities along public Right-of-Ways (RoW), we can minimise disruptions, reduce costs, and expedite the deployment of broadband Internet services. This proactive approach not only enhances connectivity but also lays the groundwork for economic growth, innovation, and prosperity for all Abians.
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“In the light of this development, the Abia State Government hereby announces a temporary and immediate cessation of all excavation/trenching activities in the State until a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) is selected to oversee the implementation of the Policy.
“Further more, all prior issued RoW by the State to Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and Internet Service Providers (ISPs), not yet implemented as at the day of this statement, is hereby suspended.”
The statement said the measure is important to ensure proper coordination and adherence to the policy guidelines as well as safeguarding the interests of both the public and private sectors.
It added that anyone, corporate or individual, who violates this policy, would be sanctioned and penalised in accordance with the law.
The government urged full cooperation from all MNOs and ISPs, as the state strives to harmonise all ducts and create a conducive and decent environment for all.