Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State announced that the state government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Huawei Technologies Company, Nigeria Limited, to implement the Kaduna State Smart City Project.
The signing ceremony took place at Huawei’s Beijing office and was witnessed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, along with other governors, ministers, and senior government officials.
Governor Sani explained that the Smart City Project aims to make Kaduna safer and smarter by improving security, public services, and attracting investment and talent to the state. “This ambitious project is expected to transform Kaduna into a safer and smarter city, setting a benchmark for technological advancement in Nigeria,” he said.
Under the agreement, Huawei will be a strategic partner, offering comprehensive solutions and technical support in several key areas, including state-level unified command, enhanced security, intelligent traffic systems, e-government, smart education, smart healthcare, ICT talent development, renewable energy, and public transportation.
Governor Sani also mentioned that a joint committee will be created between the Kaduna State Government and Huawei to work on the project’s implementation plan, funding, and technology deployment. He assured the citizens that the project will be deliverable, sustainable, and valuable to them. “We are committed to ensuring that this project is not only deliverable but also sustainable and valuable to the citizens of the state,” he emphasized.
Highlighting the importance of digital technology in driving economic growth, Governor Sani pointed to the role of the Kaduna State Directorate of Information and Communication Technology in launching various ICT services and digital economy initiatives. He noted, “The Kaduna Technology City, which is being upgraded to a Smart City, and the Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre, are key to empowering residents through ICT.”
He also talked about the state’s “Bridging the Last Mile Initiative 2024 – 2027,” which aims to increase digital inclusion and help citizens use digital tools to improve their businesses and lives. Recently, the governor signed a law to position Kaduna as Nigeria’s leading digital technology hub, promoting innovation and creating skills that can be exported.
Governor Sani reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to the swift implementation of the Smart City Project, highlighting its potential to bring a new era of security and prosperity to Kaduna State. He expressed gratitude to Huawei Technologies for their partnership, stating, “We believe this collaboration with Huawei will be instrumental in achieving our digital transformation goals.”
