Project 774 Connectivity, an initiative by the Federal Government to digitiss local government operations and foster digital skills across Nigeria, has recognises Imo State as a frontrunner in grassroots innovation.
As part of the program, Ikeduru Local Government Area of the state emerged as a top beneficiary, winning a ₦2 million grant to develop a digital security app to enhance communication and security across its 29 autonomous communities.
The initiative, piloted in 579 local government areas nationwide, selected Ikeduru LGA alongside five others in Imo State to benefit from improved internet access and support for innovative solutions to local challenges.
Under the visionary leadership of Senator Hope Uzodimma, Imo State has solidified its position as a digital transformation hub.
Through his administration’s flagship SkillUpImo project, over 20,000 youths across all local government areas have been trained in advanced digital skills and equipped with relevant digital tools, laying the groundwork for successfully implementing Project 774 Connectivity.
This strategic investment in human capital aligns with the project’s vision of fostering grassroots technological advancement and inclusivity, positioning Imo as a model for leveraging technology to drive sustainable development.
The grant announcement, made by Hon. Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, at a co-creation session in Abuja, reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to empowering local governments through technology. Imo State’s delegation, led by Hon. Justice Nze, Executive Chairman of Ikeduru LGA, presented a compelling proposal for centralising security operations using Project 774’s free internet connectivity.
This innovative approach earned the state national recognition and financial support to bring the solution to life
Imo State Commissioner for Digital Economy and E-Government, Dr. Chimezie Amadi, expressed profound gratitude to the Federal Government and the Hon. Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, for recognizing Imo State’s commitment to digital transformation.
He affirmed that the grant would be effectively utilised to achieve the objectives of Project 774 Connectivity.
“This achievement reflects Governor Uzodimma’s unwavering dedication to leveraging digital technology for security, governance, and economic empowerment. It is a testament to the progressive strides being made under his administration,” Dr. Amadi stated.
Amadi also emphasised the state’s readiness to collaborate with the Federal Government to sustain and expand the project’s impact.
“Imo State is fully committed to ensuring unhindered technological advancement and digital connectivity across all local government areas.
“We will work tirelessly to translate this opportunity into tangible benefits for our communities, strengthening the vision of making Imo a digital skills hub for Africa,” he added.
The Universal Service Provision Fund’s Executive Secretary, Dr. Oluyomi Arowosafe, also praised the innovative spirit displayed during the co-creation session. He reaffirmed the Fund’s dedication to improving internet accessibility and creating an inclusive digital economy at the grassroots level.
The stakeholders’ meeting also featured representatives from NITDA, NIGCOMSAT, and other key agencies, who evaluated the state of internet connectivity in participating LGAs and identified areas for further improvement.
