The Plateau State Government has taken a bold step into the digital future with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Solutions Eastern Fibre Limited for the establishment of a broadband fibre optic infrastructure across the state.
The agreement, signed on Tuesday, October 15, 2025, at the Twin Theatre of the New Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos, marks the beginning of a new era in digital connectivity and economic transformation for Plateau.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang, who witnessed the signing, described the initiative as a “game changer” for Plateau’s development journey, stressing that it will revolutionize communication, education, healthcare, and business operations in the state.
“The significance of this day is yet to fully sink in,” the governor remarked. “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.”
Mutfwang highlighted that the partnership will position Plateau to compete with digitally advanced states and nations by bridging the gap in Internet access, especially in rural communities. He noted that the initiative aligns with his administration’s vision of fostering growth through public-private partnerships (PPP).
“We’re not spending government money but attracting private investment,” he said. “This will enhance business growth, boost our Internally Generated Revenue, and open the door for innovation-driven development.”
The governor also praised Mr. Rom Chan, a Plateau indigene based in the United Kingdom, for facilitating the collaboration, describing it as an act of patriotism. He urged officials to prioritize the project’s implementation and ensure its speedy execution.
Driving Plateau’s Digital Transformation
The Chief Executive Officer of Solutions Eastern Fibre Limited, Mr. Chris Agwaibo, said the signing of the MoU marks a historic leap forward for Plateau State’s digital landscape.
“October 15, 2025, will be remembered as the day Plateau joined the digital highway,” he stated. “This initiative will enable high-speed Internet access that supports remote work, online education, telemedicine, and e-governance.”
Agwaibo explained that the new fiber optic infrastructure will replace the state’s existing microwave network, providing faster, more reliable, and more stable connections. The project, he added, will follow a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model, where Solutions Eastern Fibre will construct and manage the network for 25 years before transferring ownership to the state government.
The infrastructure, he said, will also support smart technologies such as CCTV security systems, electronic traffic management, and data centers in Jos — all aimed at driving Plateau’s transition into a fully digital economy.
“This partnership offers an opportunity to generate wealth, create jobs, and develop the digital ecosystem,” Agwaibo said. “Above all, it enables Plateau to leap truly into the 21st century.”
Understanding the Power of Fibre
In his presentation, the Director General of the Plateau State Information and Communication Technology Development Agency (PICTDA), Engr. Dominic Gwaman Datong, provided insight into the importance of fibre optic connectivity for digital advancement.
He explained that while traditional copper and microwave connections are limited in range and speed, fibre optics transmit data at nearly the speed of light, allowing for seamless communication across vast distances.
“Before this administration, Plateau had about 900 kilometers of fibre network,” Datong said. “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.”
He noted that the initiative also aligns with the National Dig-Once Policy, which encourages the coordinated laying of infrastructure to minimize road damage and duplication of effort.
Datong added that the fibre optic expansion will not only improve Internet access but also attract Internet Service Providers (ISPs), strengthen digital businesses, and create new employment opportunities.
The Benefits Ahead
The broadband project is expected to deliver numerous advantages for Plateau State, including:
- High-speed Internet connectivity across urban and rural areas.
- Reduced call drops and stronger service reliability.
- Expanded business opportunities for local Internet providers and startups.
- Enhanced telemedicine, online learning, and remote work capabilities.
- Alignment with the Federal Government’s Dig-Once Policy for sustainable infrastructure.
A Giant Step Forward
Governor Mutfwang concluded by reaffirming his administration’s commitment to making Plateau a model 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.”
