Kebbi Waives Statutory Fees For Deployment Of Optic Fibre Cables Across The State

Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris (Kauran Gwandu), has signed an executive order waiving all statutory fees for the deployment of optic fibre cables across the state.

This applies to all telecommunications companies operating in Nigeria.

The announcement was made by the Director General of Kebbi State Investment Promotion Agency (KIPA), Dr. Kabiru Muhammad Kamba, during a courtesy visit on Tuesday to the General Manager of Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport, Birnin Kebbi, Alhaji Habibu Muhammed Sabi.

The visit aimed to foster partnerships with the aviation sector through the airport’s management.

Dr. Kamba explained that, with this initiative, telecommunications companies like MTN, Airtel, Glo, and others can deploy optic fibre cables across the 21 local government areas in Kebbi State without incurring charges.

“This decision by His Excellency, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris, reflects his recognition of the critical role of information dissemination. By waiving the fees for fibre optic deployment, the Governor is making it easier for telecom companies to provide connectivity throughout the state,” he said.

He added that the waiver would accelerate the state’s development and attract investment through improved information technology infrastructure.

“This move is hoped will lower costs for MTN, Airtel, Glo, and other internet providers, enabling the deployment of technology across Kebbi State’s communities, thereby improving access to information.”

Dr. Kamba commended Governor Idris for his dedication to the state’s progress, noting that this step aligns with the governor’s broader vision for growth.

During the visit, Dr. Kamba also highlighted the importance of partnering with the aviation sector to boost the state’s investment profile. He stated that the Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport serves as a key gateway to international markets, particularly West Africa, with a potential reach of over 600 million people.

“This partnership is essential to promoting Kebbi State’s abundant resources and opportunities in agriculture, energy, transportation, health, and education. The airport is strategically positioned to help us reach key markets across West Africa, where there is a growing demand for goods and services from Nigeria,” he emphasized.

In response, Alhaji Habibu Muhammed Sabi, Permanent Secretary and Manager of the Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport, expressed the airport’s readiness to collaborate with KIPA to enhance investment in the state.

He revealed ongoing discussions to bring more airlines to Kebbi, which would operate alongside two existing carriers. An indigenous airline, Nazia Airlines, is set to begin flights from Birnin Kebbi to Kano, Lagos, and Cotonou.

“We are confident that expanding airline operations will boost investment, create employment, increase trade, and enhance security in Kebbi State,” Sabi remarked.

He also appealed to the Federal Government to complete the stalled construction of the airport’s cargo terminal, which is critical for further boosting trade and investment in the state.

Credit: Yahaya Sarki
Special Adviser (Media and Publicity)
To the Governor, Kebbi State.