Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has commissioned the newly completed Katsina Metropolitan Area Fibre Network and the Independent Solar Power Plant, describing both projects as major steps that will accelerate technology adoption, expand digital access, and open new opportunities for young people across the State. The event, held at the Katdict center shortly after the InvestKatsina Economic Summit, was presented as one of the administration’s boldest moves toward building a modern digital economy. Governor Radda said the commissioning represents another decisive effort to digitise governance in Katsina, stating that “Digital is the way forward, and Katsina will not be left behind.”
From the beginning of the ceremony, the Governor emphasized that the fibre network will expand access to fast and reliable internet, allowing young men and women to take advantage of technology for education, entrepreneurship, remote work, and digital inclusion. He explained that the global economy now depends heavily on information technology, and Katsina’s younger population must be prepared to compete. According to him, this infrastructure is not just a project but a foundation for long-term digital strength.
Governor Radda explained that the achievements were made possible through a key policy decision: the waiver of Right of Way charges. This single move attracted over ₦4 billion worth of fibre-optic infrastructure covering 25 kilometres across the Katsina metropolis. He said the policy was designed to encourage investors while prioritising long-term digital prosperity over short-term revenue. He stressed that northern Nigeria has historically fallen behind in digital adoption, making urgent government intervention necessary to unlock opportunities for young people and build digital competitiveness.
The Governor stated that the fibre network forms the backbone of the State’s “One Government Enterprise” vision, which aims to digitise all government processes and ensure residents can access public services with a single click. He noted that the administration is committed to creating an environment where technology drives service delivery, economic expansion, and innovation. He described the fibre infrastructure as a major pillar of future e-governance and smart services that will support the State’s transformation agenda.
Governor Radda commended IHS for its partnership and said the government is ready to welcome more ICT sector players. He also announced plans to ensure all local government headquarters eventually enjoy free internet access. This plan, he said, is part of a broader effort to ensure that no community is left behind. He reaffirmed that every local government must have at least one Digital Touchpoint to support efficient e-governance and provide young people with stable, high-speed internet access.
Alongside the fibre network, Governor Radda commissioned the Independent Solar Power Plant developed in partnership with IHS Towers. He explained that reliable energy is essential for powering the fibre infrastructure and ensuring uninterrupted connectivity across the State. He highlighted that the combination of strong digital infrastructure and dependable energy will help build a more modern, connected, and productive Katsina.
The Governor reiterated his commitment to policies that attract investment, expand digital infrastructure, and create opportunities for youth employment, creativity, and innovation. He said the fibre network and solar project show Katsina’s determination to become a leading destination for technology investment and digital enterprise. He ended his remarks by saying, “The world has moved. Katsina will not only move with it—we will lead.”
After his remarks, Governor Radda formally commissioned the Katsina Metropolitan Area Fibre Network and the Independent Solar Power Plant, dedicating the projects to the people of Katsina State. He reaffirmed his pledge to continue championing initiatives that strengthen the State’s digital economy and support its growing innovation ecosystem.
Earlier in the event, the Director General of KATDICT, Naufal Ahmed, explained that strong policy foundations are essential for unlocking the State’s rapidly growing technology and innovation ecosystem. He said that policy is the backbone of digital progress, economic diversification, and long-term development. He added that Katsina is now a national leader, becoming Nigeria’s first sub-national to adopt and pass the Startup and Innovation Bill. This milestone, he said, sends a strong message of support to innovators, stating, “We see you, we believe in you, and we are ready to invest in you.”
According to the DG, technology is now a major driver of Nigeria’s economy, contributing over 14% of GDP. He said Katsina has the opportunity to leap ahead in innovation, digital skills, and youth empowerment. With strong growth, he noted that the State may soon face increasing demand for technical skills, possibly requiring imported professionals to meet the needs of a fast-growing digital market.
He said technology can help solve major challenges in unemployment, agriculture, security, education, and healthcare. These possibilities, he explained, are supported by the Governor’s leadership, which led to the creation of KATDICT and strong policy support for digital expansion.
The DG commended the Governor as the State prepared to unveil the major fibre project. He reported that the infrastructure, valued at over ₦4.7 billion, came at zero cost to the State because Governor Radda waived the Right of Way charges. He said this decision opened the digital market, made Katsina highly attractive to investors, and created interest from companies like IHS and MTN. He added that the State has also streamlined permitting through a one-stop system where approvals are issued within 14 days, supported by clear conflict-resolution processes.
He revealed that discussions are ongoing to adopt the Dig Once Policy, also known as Dig 1 Policy, which could reduce fibre deployment costs by up to 70% by encouraging shared ducts and preventing repeated road excavation. He noted that with strong infrastructure, skilled talent, and improving power supply, Katsina is positioned to lead in Nigeria’s innovation space.
He concluded by saying that the future being built aligns with Governor Radda’s vision of a smart, innovation-driven State powered by strong policies, modern infrastructure, reliable electricity, and continuous investment in creativity.
The commissioning was attended by the Commissioner for Commerce and Tourism, Hon. Yusuf Jirdede; Economic Adviser Khalil Nura Khalil; and several other senior government officials.
