Anambra Governor Soludo Drives Down Internet Costs with IXP Initiative

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo, has initiated efforts to reduce internet access costs in the state. CEO of the Anambra State ICT Agency, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata Agency, revealed this during a virtual media briefing. The plans include partnering with the Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN) and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to establish an Internet Exchange Point (IXP) in the state.

An Internet Exchange Point (IXP) is a physical location where Internet infrastructure companies like ISPs connect with each other. By being present at an IXP, companies can reduce latency, improve round-trip time, and potentially lower costs by shortening their path to transit from other participating networks.

Fred Agbata emphasized the far-reaching impact of an IXP in Anambra, citing benefits such as faster internet speeds for users, cost savings for ISPs leading to more affordable internet packages, opportunities for local businesses to expand online, improved data security, and the growth of a thriving tech ecosystem.

He called on all ISPs in the state to support the project, highlighting that the Exchange Point would serve as a central hub for network operators, educational institutions providing internet services, and ISPs.

In addition to the IXP project, the Anambra ICT Agency has activated a Pilot Phase of its Public Wi-Fi (Solution Wi-Fi) at Aroma Junction, Book Foundation, and Unizik Gate, Ifite Awka. Efforts are underway to extend Public Wi-Fi to more public spaces across the state in line with the Governor’s Manifesto.

Fred Agbata also mentioned an increase in fibre infrastructure deployment in the state, attributed to Governor Soludo’s implementation of the Zero Right of Way (RoW) policy. This policy eliminates charges for laying fibre ducts, leading to improved service quality. Anambra is among the states implementing this policy to deepen broadband penetration.

The high cost of Right of Way has been a barrier to broadband penetration in Nigeria, but Anambra’s adoption of zero charges for RoW has set a precedent. This move aligns with the Federal Government’s N145 per linear meter harmonized charges and aims to expedite fibre infrastructure rollout.

Nairametrics