Abia Govt, MTN Partnership Achieves 77% Network Coverage

The Abia State Government says it has made considerable progress in its partnership with MTN Nigeria Limited to achieve full voice and data coverage across the state, with 77 per cent of newly deployed network sites currently operational.

The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed this on Monday while briefing journalists on the outcome of the Executive Council meeting in Umuahia.

He said the improved coverage has extended telecom services to previously underserved communities, with residents now enjoying better access to voice and data services.

Kanu, however, expressed concern over the vandalisation of some network sites and fibre infrastructure, particularly in parts of Aba, which he said affected progress towards 100 per cent coverage.

“MTN Nigeria Limited is working assiduously to regain the almost 100 per cent coverage that was achieved a few weeks ago before the vandalisation of most of the new sites,” he said.

He listed some of the locations benefiting from the new infrastructure to include Aba-Umuahia Road in Isiala Ngwa South, Umuako Health Centre in Isiala Ngwa North, St. Theresa’s School axis in Umuahia South, Osundi-Ibunda-Abo Nkporo in Ohafia, Umuozo Community and Ikeduru Street in Aba, as well as Isiaku Primary Health Centre, Alayi.

The Commissioner appealed to residents to protect the infrastructure, stressing that the facilities were installed for their benefit.

“These communication and network assets are being installed for the use and convenience of Abians and residents. We therefore urge communities to take ownership and help protect them from vandalism,” he stated.

Kanu expressed optimism that the affected sites would be restored in the coming weeks.

“The belief is that in the coming weeks, we will go back to 100 per cent coverage, so that in every part of Abia State where you are, you will be able to make use of the internet, both voice and data. This is a project that is expected to redefine the business landscape of the state,” he said.