The Federal Government has approved two contracts totaling N24.20 billion for the provision of broadband for free internet in 75 public locations around the country, including 20 airports, tertiary institutions, and marketplaces.
The Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Ali Pantami, stated this to the press on Wednesday, following the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting presided over by President Muhammadu Buhari at the State House in Abuja.
According to him, the free internet services will be available at airports, public universities, and markets in all 36 states of the federation, as well as in Abuja.
In addition, the Council approved two large contracts for the development of a Centre of Excellence for environmental rehabilitation in the Kana Local Government Area of the State of Rivers and a 100-bed specialised hospital in Ogoni.
According to the Minister of Environment, Mohammed Abdullahi, the purpose of these projects is to facilitate efficient and cost-effective approaches to contamination management and environmental restoration while supporting the well-being and welfare of those affected by the negative effects of contamination in those areas.
Other documents authorised at the weekly FEC meeting include the approval of a contract for the dualization of the roads bordering the states of Ekiti and Ondo for approximately N95 billion with a 54-month completion period.
According to the Minister of Information and Culture, who spoke on behalf of the Minister, Hadi Sirika, the ministry of aviation also received consent for the construction of a hostel with 150 rooms at a cost of over N2 billion.
