Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR, is leading Anambra State into a new era of technological advancement with the launch of the pilot phase of the Public Wi-Fi initiative, known as Solution Wi-Fi. This initiative, a collaboration between the Anambra State ICT Agency and Pineheight Systems Limited (PHSWEB), marks a significant step towards transforming the state into a smart mega city.

Governor Soludo’s commitment to a technologically advanced future for Anambra is evident in his manifesto, where he pledged to provide affordable and eventually free Wi-Fi hotspots in public places, as well as to deploy broadband access to schools and public libraries. This pilot phase of the Solution Wi-Fi initiative is a concrete step towards realizing these promises and launching Anambra into the digital age.

According to Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, CFA, MD/CEO of the Anambra State ICT Agency, the agency is dedicated to realizing Governor Soludo’s vision of “Everything Technology, Technology Everywhere.” This pilot phase is part of the ongoing technological transformation under the Soludo Agenda, which includes collaboration with development partners to provide broadband access to schools and public libraries.

The Solution Wi-Fi initiative is currently operational in three strategic locations in Awka: Aroma Junction, Book Foundation, and UNIZIK Back gate. Users in these locations can enjoy one hour of free internet access every 24 hours during the pilot phase. These locations were chosen for their strategic importance to students and businesses, with the aim of boosting educational activities and enhancing online presence for businesses.

To access the free Solution Wi-Fi, businesses and individuals around the designated locations can activate their Wi-Fi, select “Solution Wi-Fi,” and follow the SMS authentication prompt to create a username (phone number). They will then receive an auto-generated code via SMS, which serves as the password for one hour of fast internet access per day, with an effective range of up to 200 meters.

This initiative underscores Anambra State’s commitment to technological excellence, as recognized at the National Council on Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy (NCCIDE) meeting in Kano. The state received prestigious awards, including Overall Best State in Digital Technology Development, First Position for Best State in Digital Infrastructure Technology Development, and First Runner-up in e-government Implementation and Digital Technology Human Capital Development.

Anambra State’s place on the technology map of Nigeria is secure, thanks to Governor Soludo’s commitment and investment in technology. The State ICT Agency is poised to lead the state into a future marked by technological advancement, innovation, and progress.