Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda has approved the formation of a joint committee with MTN Nigeria to drive the expansion of digital infrastructure and telecommunications services across the state.
Radda announced the move when he received the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Aminu Maida, and representatives of MTN Nigeria during a visit to the Katsina State Government House.
The governor said his administration was moving from discussions to implementation and directed that the engagement with MTN should immediately begin through a structured working committee.
“We are not interested in talks alone. We want action,” Radda said.
He said the committee would work with MTN to develop clear technical, commercial and implementation plans for digital infrastructure projects across the state.
The four-member State Working Committee includes the Director General of the Katsina State Investment Promotion Agency (KIPA), Ibrahim Tukur Jikamshi; the Executive Secretary of the Katsina State Development Management Board; the Director General of the Katsina State Directorate of ICT; and the General Manager of the Urban and Regional Planning Board.
The committee is expected to engage MTN, establish a joint technical team, identify priority projects and develop a business case and implementation plan for consideration by the state government.
Speaking during the meeting, Maida reaffirmed the NCC’s commitment to supporting Katsina’s digital transformation, including the expansion of telecommunications infrastructure and access to connectivity.
MTN Nigeria also presented proposals aimed at improving digital connectivity and using technology to improve public services across the state.
The proposals include expanding network coverage in underserved and rural communities, agricultural areas, markets, economic clusters, schools, healthcare facilities and other strategic locations.
MTN said the projects would be subject to assessments of existing infrastructure, technical feasibility and commercial viability.
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The company’s proposed approach includes forming a joint team, assessing network coverage, identifying pilot locations and developing a business case before implementing pilot projects.
The development comes as the Radda administration continues efforts to support fibre-optic deployment and expand broadband access in Katsina State.
The state government said improved digital infrastructure would help attract investment, strengthen public services and create economic opportunities for residents.
As part of the visit, Maida also donated learning computers to Sarki Dikko College, formerly Government College Katsina, his late father’s alma mater, and 117 tablets to pupils of Garama Primary School to support digital education and inclusion.
About the Author
Cecilia Attah is a tech analyst with a degree from Benue State University. She covers tech news and startups at TechRegard with a focus on how technology is transforming Africa and shaping the global landscape.
