- Project shows purposeful leadership, says IHS chief
In a significant move to advance innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship in Kwara State, the state government has inked a landmark deal with global telecoms giant IHS Towers. The collaboration aims to effectively deploy the Ilorin Innovation Hub, positioning the state as a prime destination for technological advancements and fostering rapid socioeconomic growth.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed on Saturday in Ilorin, the state capital, by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and top officials from both the government and IHS Towers, led by its Chief Executive Officer, Mohammed Darwish.
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Rafiu Ajakaye, quoted Governor AbdulRazaq as expressing his excitement, stating, “Today’s MOU signing represents a dream come true for our administration.” The governor highlighted the necessity of providing essential skills and support to the digital-native and digital-natural population, envisioning a future where Kwara State experiences job creation, poverty reduction, and improved well-being.
Governor AbdulRazaq emphasized the critical role of the partnership with IHS Towers in ensuring the efficiency and sustainability of the Ilorin Innovation Hub. He noted the mutually beneficial nature of the collaboration, with IHS Towers providing technical and organizational support in exchange for certain benefits, including the use and operation of the hub for training and ancillary programs, as well as branding rights.
The Ilorin Innovation Hub is poised to become a leading center for technology and innovation in Nigeria, focusing on nurturing disruptive ideas and supporting startups. Temi Kolawole, the Innovation Hub’s Managing Director, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, emphasizing the shared commitment to innovation, digital skill enhancement, and job creation.
Kolawole also revealed plans for collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Communications Innovation and Digital Economy, with IHS Towers as a mutual partner, anticipating an expansion of the Hub’s offerings and impact.
Mohammed Darwish, CEO of IHS Towers, commended Kwara State’s progressive digital policies, specifically highlighting the free Right of Way for Fiber Optic Cable deployment, crucial for the growth of the digital economy. Darwish outlined the company’s plans to transform the Ilorin Innovation Hub into reality by the second quarter of 2024, leveraging their established presence in Nigeria.
Engr Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria, expressed gratitude to Governor AbdulRazaq for creating a conducive environment for network operators in Kwara State. He commended the state’s leadership for its youth-focused approach and gender sensitivity.
Kazeem Oladipo, Vice President of IHS Towers, acknowledged Governor AbdulRazaq’s vision, citing positive developments in the state’s fiber optic deployment. He affirmed the company’s commitment to enhancing connectivity infrastructure in Kwara State through continued deployment.
The Ilorin Innovation Hub, an initiative by the Kwara State Government, underscores the government’s dedication to advancing technological proficiency and entrepreneurial spirit among the youth. Positioned as a hub for digital innovation and economic development, the hub is designed to facilitate the learning of digital skills and support business growth through innovation and startup entrepreneurship.
IHS Towers, as the fifth-largest independent owner, operator, and developer of shared telecommunications infrastructure globally, brings its innovative approach to enhance connectivity and support the expansion of wireless networks. The company’s significant contributions to the telecom sector make it a key player in the telecommunications infrastructure industry.
