The Plateau State Government has taken a major stride toward a digitally connected future with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Solutions Eastern Fibre Limited for the development of a state-wide broadband fibre optic infrastructure.

The agreement, signed on Tuesday, October 15, 2025, at the Twin Theatre of the New Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos, marks what Governor Caleb Mutfwang described as a “game changer” for Plateau’s socio-economic and technological advancement.

“The significance of this day is yet to fully sink in,” the governor said. “This is a turning point. With this project, you can sit in Jingir and work in America. That’s the world we’re entering — one where distance is no longer a barrier.”

Governor Mutfwang emphasized that the partnership would revolutionize communication, education, healthcare, and business operations across the state while bridging the digital divide in rural communities.

He explained that the project aligns with his administration’s commitment to growth through public-private partnerships (PPP), noting that it would attract private investment rather than depend on government funds.

“We’re not spending government money but attracting private investment,” he stated. “This will enhance business growth, boost our Internally Generated Revenue, and open the door for innovation-driven development.”

The governor commended Mr. Rom Chan, a Plateau indigene based in the United Kingdom, for facilitating the collaboration, describing his effort as a patriotic contribution to the state’s development. He urged all stakeholders to ensure swift and effective implementation of the project.

Driving Plateau’s Digital Transformation

Mr. Chris Agwaibo, Chief Executive Officer of Solutions Eastern Fibre Limited, described the agreement as a historic leap forward for Plateau’s digital landscape.

“October 15, 2025, will be remembered as the day Plateau joined the digital highway,” he said. “This initiative will enable high-speed Internet access that supports remote work, online education, telemedicine, and e-governance.”

Agwaibo explained that the new fibre optic infrastructure would replace the state’s existing microwave network, offering faster, more reliable, and more stable connections. The project will be implemented under a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model, with Solutions Eastern Fibre managing the network for 25 years before handing it over to the state government.

He added that the infrastructure will also power smart technologies such as CCTV surveillance, electronic traffic management, and data centers in Jos, propelling Plateau toward a fully digital economy.

“This partnership offers an opportunity to generate wealth, create jobs, and develop the digital ecosystem,” Agwaibo noted. “Above all, it enables Plateau to leap truly into the 21st century.”

Understanding the Power of Fibre

In a technical presentation, Engr. Dominic Gwaman Datong, Director General of the Plateau State Information and Communication Technology Development Agency (PICTDA), highlighted the advantages of fibre optic technology for modern connectivity.

He explained that while traditional copper and microwave systems have limited capacity, fibre optics transmit data at nearly the speed of light, allowing seamless and high-speed communication across long distances.

“Before this administration, Plateau had about 900 kilometers of fibre network,” Datong revealed. “With Governor Mutfwang’s leadership, that has now increased to around 2,500 kilometers. But we must expand further to connect our communities and institutions.”

Datong noted that the initiative aligns with the National Dig-Once Policy, which promotes coordinated infrastructure deployment to minimize road damage and reduce costs. He added that the expansion will improve Internet access, attract Internet Service Providers (ISPs), strengthen digital businesses, and create new employment opportunities.

Benefits of the Broadband Project

The new broadband network is expected to deliver far-reaching benefits, including:

• High-speed Internet connectivity across urban and rural areas.
• Fewer call drops and stronger network reliability.
• Expanded business opportunities for local Internet providers and startups.
• Improved telemedicine, online learning, and remote work potential.
• Alignment with the Federal Government’s Dig-Once Policy for sustainable infrastructure development.

A Giant Step Forward

Governor Mutfwang reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to making Plateau a hub of digital innovation and connectivity.

“This is a giant step that will define the future of Plateau State,” he said. “We’re laying the foundation for a connected, modern, and globally competitive Plateau. The digital highway begins here.”