The Katsina State Government has taken a significant step in its efforts to attract telecom investment by waiving the Right of Way (RoW) charges for telecommunication firms seeking to lay optic fibre within the state. This bold move, aimed at fostering a conducive investment environment, was announced by the spokesman for Governor Dikko Radda, Ibrahim Kaula, in a statement released on Friday.
Governor Radda’s decisive action saw the signing of an Executive Order labeled “Right of Way (RoW) Charges Regulation Order 2023,” solidifying the state government’s commitment to propelling technological advancement and economic growth. This order, enacted in accordance with the powers vested in the governor by Section 5(2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), is set to come into effect on December 8, 2023.
Effective upon commencement, the Order decrees that charges for Right of Way (RoW) across the state shall be completely exempted per linear meter. This strategic decision is poised to eliminate an erstwhile financial barrier, opening the floodgates for telecom operators to expand and enhance their network infrastructure within Katsina State.
Ibrahim Kaula underscored the significance of the RoW charge, describing it as the fee paid to state governments for the installation of optic fibre by telecoms operators. Typically, the RoW charge, as stipulated by the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC), stands at N145 per linear meter. Notably, numerous states impose charges surpassing this amount. However, Governor Radda’s latest Order has eradicated this financial encumbrance, rendering Katsina State an even more appealing investment destination.
“I have no doubt that the move will soon attract investments for Katsina, especially in the areas of ICT and internet development,” Mr. Kaula emphasized, highlighting the anticipated positive impact on the state’s technological landscape.
This bold decision by the Katsina State Government not only illustrates its proactive stance towards economic development but also positions it as an attractive hub for telecom firms seeking fertile ground to expand their operations. In essence, this move paves the way for a surge in ICT infrastructure development, paving the way for unprecedented progress in the realm of connectivity and digital innovation within the state.
As the global telecommunications landscape continues to evolve, Katsina State’s decision stands as a beacon of progressive governance, illuminating the path for burgeoning technological advancement and economic prosperity within the region. This strategic initiative is a testament to the state’s unwavering commitment to fostering an environment conducive to growth, innovation, and investment.
In conclusion, the waiver of RoW charges for telecom firms within Katsina State is a paradigm-shifting development, igniting newfound opportunities and propelling the state towards a future brimming with technological advancement and economic growth.
NAN
