The push, championed by Governor Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, signals a shift toward smarter, faster and more citizen-focused public service delivery.

Speaking during an interactive session with media executives in Lagos, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata (CFA), the managing director, Anambra State ICT Agency, explained that the administration’s digital-first approach is reshaping how government engages citizens and delivers services.

Agbata said the Soludo administration is intentional about embedding technology into governance at scale.

“Governor Soludo’s vision is clear, a smarter, faster, more efficient government driven by data, innovation and citizen-focused digital tools,” he said.

Agbata noted that the state has adopted extensive data analytics to improve planning, service delivery and overall decision-making.

He explained that AI-driven analytics are now helping the government understand citizen needs, plan interventions and monitor impact more effectively.

He mentioned that the state’s previous use of data modelling in political engagement demonstrated the power of structured data but stressed that the real goal is institutionalising data culture across government, not just elections.

“We sit on rich datasets today; from demographic insights to service requests, and we are using them to build a more responsive government,” he said.

The ICT boss highlighted the state’s work on conversational AI systems that will allow citizens to interact with government easily, even in local languages.

“Whether literate or illiterate, people should soon be able to speak to AI in an indigenous language and have their requests processed,” he said.

“That’s where governance is going, and Anambra intends to lead.”

Highlighting Broadband Expansion as one of the biggest wins of Governor Soludo’s administration, Agbata emphasised that broadband penetration remains central to achieving the state’s digital agenda.

He credited Governor Soludo’s progressive Right-of-Way policy and proactive industry engagement for accelerating fibre deployment across communities.

“When ISPs begin travelling to Anambra on their own, it shows they see good policy and a viable market,” he said.

Today, more households in semi-urban communities are enjoying reliable fibre connections something CFA said was almost impossible in previous years..

CFA also disclosed that Anambra continues to pursue the establishment of an Internet Exchange Point to localise traffic and reduce cost while improving speed.

“Localising traffic means your data won’t travel to Lagos or Amsterdam before returning,” he explained. He noted that although technical requirements have caused delays, significant progress is expected in 2026.

Agbata added that national assessments have recognised Anambra’s advancement in digitisation and reforms. “According to BudgIT and other national bodies, Anambra ranks number one in the Southeast in ease of doing business and transparency,” he said.

He attributed the growth to healthy inter-state competition and measurable reforms championed by Governor Soludo.

Agbata praised the young professionals powering the state’s digital work, particularly in data analytics and infrastructure mapping.

He also highlighted the vital role of industry partnerships:

“Relationships matter. If we fully deploy just 20% of the relationships we have within and outside the country, Anambra would be on another level.”

He cited instances where collaboration with telecom executives led to quick fixes and infrastructure deployment in the state.

Agbata thanked the Lagos media community for their continuous support in making the Anambra’s digital revolution seen and appreciated by all.

“We don’t take your support for granted. You have helped amplify Anambra’s digital transformation story,” he said.

As Anambra deepens investments in digital infrastructure, AI systems and data-driven governance, Agbata said the state is positioning itself as the emerging technology and innovation hub of the Southeast.

“There is a generation coming that is digital-first. Our responsibility is to build systems ready for them,” he said.

NiRA, the custodian of Nigeria’s country code top-level domain (.ng), held its AGM in a hybrid format, with over 325 stakeholders participating both physically and virtually.

The event served as a critical review of Nigeria’s evolving digital identity ecosystem and highlighted major wins, including the registration of over 94,000 new .ng domains and the rollout of DNS Security Extensions (DNSSEC) to boost trust and resilience in the national domain space.

Mr. Agbata’s emergence onto NiRA’s leadership is not just a personal milestone but a significant moment for Anambra State, which has, since the inception of Governor Soludo’s administration, adopted the .anambrastate.gov.ng domain in line with the call for local domain usage.

NiRA’s AGM also spotlighted strategic partnerships with public and private bodies, including the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) and NITDA, both of which align closely with the state’s ongoing digital transformation journey.

For Anambra, Mr. Agbata’s new role opens even more channels for collaboration and influence as the state continues to position itself as a digital-first government and a model for responsible tech-driven governance in Nigeria.

“Our adoption of the .ng domain is not symbolic. It reflects our belief in building an internet identity that is both Nigerian and secure. I am honoured to serve on NiRA’s board at this critical time,” Mr. Agbata said following his election.

The Anambra State ICT Agency reaffirms its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote a secure, accessible, and resilient digital ecosystem, both locally and nationally.

His insights, shared at the ongoing Omniverse Summit February 27 – March 1, 2024, at the Landmark Event Center, Lagos, advocate for a paradigm shift in how innovation is perceived and fostered within the public sector.

During a riveting panel discussion, CFA addressed the pervasive myth that civil servants are inherently non-innovative.

But speaking at the Omniverse Summit, CFA countered this narrative with compelling evidence, stating,

“The notion that civil servants lack innovation is a misconception we’re determined to overturn. Innovation flourishes when civil servants at all levels are engaged and empowered to collaborate, unlocking vast potential for societal advancement.”

CFA drew attention to the fintech sector’s explosive growth as a prime example of public sector innovation, crediting this success to the proactive and forward-thinking civil servants within regulatory bodies such as the CBN.

Their ability to anticipate and adapt to the industry’s needs has been pivotal.

Further highlighting Anambra State’s commitment to innovation, CFA spoke of the significant steps taken under Governor Soludo’s leadership, including eliminating right-of-way (RoW) charges.

“This policy not only incentivizes investment but also cultivates a fertile ground for technological and innovative endeavors”, Agbata added.

CFA’s message resonated with clarity and purpose: Anambra is leading the charge into a new dawn of public sector innovation, galvanized by the untapped potential of its civil servants.

This movement is more than a regional narrative; it’s a national call to action, inviting all stakeholders to contribute to a future where innovation is integral to public service.

“We stand at the threshold of a transformative era in public service, driven by innovation and collaborative spirit. Anambra’s journey under the visionary leadership of Governor Soludo is just the beginning. We invite you to be part of this transformative journey. Engage with us on our social media platforms @ANdotICTA, share your ideas and solutions for enhancing public service through technology and innovation.

“Together, let’s redefine the essence of public service through innovation.

“This is our collective mission to serve, innovate, and lead in an ever-evolving world”, he said at the Omniverse Summit.

This call was made in a press statement signed by the MD himself on 2nd January 2024.

Agbata also said in the new year 2024, there is the need for Ministries, Departments, and Agencies in Anambra State to embark on a deliberate exploration of technology, strategically aiming to enhance their operational processes.

He said, “In pursuing a more accountable, progressive, and sustainable future, the Anambra State ICT Agency recognizes the pivotal role of technology in driving positive change across various sectors. The benefits are simply limitless.

“As the agency mandated to drive the everything technology and technology everywhere vision of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, we recognize that at the heart of this transformation, lies the recognition that technology holds the key to fostering accountability, driving progress, and ensuring sustainability across various sectors”

“By embracing technological advancements, we can unlock new possibilities, streamline processes, and usher in an era of unprecedented growth. From agriculture to healthcare, governance, and education, the potential for positive transformation is boundless.”

CFA further reiterated the Agency’s commitment to providing the necessary support, aligning with its mandate, and reinforcing Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s vision for a technologically advanced state.

“The journey towards impactful change is a collective effort. We, government, parastatals, private sector, communities, and individuals must unite in embracing and harnessing the robust potentials of technology. Together, we can build more resilient, inclusive, and forward-looking Anambra on the horizon.

“So, whether you’re an innovator, entrepreneur, or simply someone passionate about a better future, your contribution matters, let’s leverage technology as a force for positive transformation, shaping a world that reflects our shared values and aspirations,” CFA concluded.

“On behalf of the Agency, we would like to wish everyone an impactful 2024”, the message reads.

The event held at the ASUU hall of the Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka, Anambra State on September 29, 2023, provided a platform for secondary school students to showcase their innovative ideas and entrepreneurial projects.

He commended the young entrepreneurs for their courage in presenting their ideas and products to the audience.

Noting that entrepreneurship is not for the faint-hearted, CFA highlighted the challenges faced by entrepreneurs, noting that a staggering 90% of new businesses fail in their first year.

He however, encouraged the participants not to be disheartened if their schools didn’t emerge as winners, emphasizing that success stories often stem from perseverance and resilience.

He stressed the importance of learning from the experience and building upon the knowledge gained at such events, emphasizing that the world eagerly awaits the contributions of these budding entrepreneurs.

“Many people go to their graves afraid to try,” he said, urging the students to seize the opportunities before them

“There is never a special time to start a business—it’s your business, and the time is now.”

CFA also acknowledged the presentations made by the students, particularly those who pitched tech solutions.

He announced that the Anambra ICT Agency is open to partnering with secondary schools to develop solution-oriented apps and technologies. He encouraged interested schools to reach out to the agency for collaboration.

CFA applauded the organizers of the BossLadyLaw Challenge for their dedication to nurturing young talent and promoting innovation in Anambra State.

He urged the students to pursue their dreams and emphasized that skills in the tech industry are in high demand, presenting numerous opportunities for those willing to explore the field.

The event concluded with a resounding round of applause for the young entrepreneurs, who left the stage inspired and motivated to continue their entrepreneurial journeys.

The visit afforded the two organizations the opportunity to discuss areas of mutual cooperation between the State and the Commission.

Among the key areas of cooperation discussed at the meeting included Citizens’ Awareness, where both organizations are looking at raising public consciousness around Data Protection and ensuring Data privacy for citizens, so as to reduce the scourge of hacking, identity theft and other ills that currently make online and offline presence a challenge in the country.

Both executives also discussed the importance of Capacity Building in order to get more more people trained on data protection as well as the need for public and private institutions in the state to engage the services of Data Protection Officers, DPOs, in compliance and monitoring, in line with the provisions of the Act establishing the NDPC and the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation, NDPR.

Both organizations are also looking to create new job openings and employment opportunities in areas such as Data Protection Officers (DPOs), Compliance Officers among others, as an initiative towards Youth Empowerment. This they envisaged, will enable the youths be better informed and empowered to setup innovative business around data protection and management.

In his remarks, the Managing Director of Anambra State ICT Agency noted that data is the new oil, because of its strategic importance to planning across critical spheres of the economy.

He said, having underscored this, Mr Governor, Prof Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR has committed to accurate data sourcing and the protection of data, especially personal data, as an insurance that will enhance the prosperity of Ndi Anambra on the short run, as well as ensure that on a long run, more businesses flourish in the state.

According to CFA, the visit is to explore possible avenues of collaboration that will yield in accurate data sourcing for the state, which will in turn, prove resourceful for the Commission in national planning.

In his response, the NDPC National Commissioner, Dr Olatunji promised to support Anambra State through the ICT Agency, in its plan to make the state a technology-driven state.

Highpoint of the visit was the presentation of a copy of the Data Protection Act – 2023 to the MD/CEO of the Anambra ICT Agency by the NDPC National Commissioner, who was too excited to partner with the State.

Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata (CFA), was among the five pioneer members of the Board of Innovation Support Network (ISN) who are stepping down as announced at the 2023 annual ISN gathering.

CFA is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Anambra State ICT Agency. He stepped down as member of the Board, after four years of laying the foundations for the successful unbundling of Innovation in Nigeria, at the ISN annual gathering with the theme, ‘Unlocking Potentials: Collaborating for Growth and Impact‘.

Day One of the August event, according to the programme schedule, witnessed the Annual General Meeting, AGM, held at the Nigeria Army Resource Centre, Asokoro; Day Two was the Annual Gathering at Shehu Musa Yar’adua Centre, Central Business District; while Day Three was for the Abuja Ecosystem tour.

CFA was elected to the Board in 2019, as a key builder of the ISN, which is a conglomeration of Innovation hubs, which are avenues for budding entrepreneurs, usually referred to as start-ups as well as executing other important projects for the deepening of technology across the country.

Having served on the board for four years now, CFA has been instrumental to the evolution of the plethora of Innovation hubs in Nigeria today, driving the agenda of a mission to create jobs, stimulate socio-economic growth, leveraging science, technology and innovation by supporting member hubs and their communities with capacity, knowledge, finance, network and enabling policies.

It is notable that ISN Hubs which started off with just about 75 Innovation hubs in 2019, has grown to a community of over 150+ hubs, promoting Capacity Building among Hubs through National & Regional Knowledge Share Gatherings, Demo Days and Meet-the-Funders Events.

For CFA, who served as Director of Marketing and Acting Chairman of the Board, it has been an amazing four-year journey of innovation and leadership.

Looking back at the journey, Agbata observed that what began as a visionary idea, has blossomed into a thriving force for innovation, expressing delight to have been part of the individuals who contributed to its formation and expansion, alongside other board members and the 75 founding hubs.

“I am even more excited to pass the torch and witness the continued development of this esteemed organization. The journey actually began in October 2018, at the AfriLabs annual gathering, which was held in Dar-es-Salem, Tanzania. I am glad that a simple discussion among the Founder, TechnoVision, Tomi Davies; AfriLabs board member, Bernard Chiira; Founder, Innovation Growth Hub, Daniel Chinagozi; Founder, Olutu Square, Bruce Lucas and I, led to the creation of a WhatsApp group, called, ‘Hub Owners Village’, which we decided will be a platform to converge all hubs in the country.

“Traction then began in 2019 after a meetup at the Techstars’ Start up weekend in Aba with Daniel Chinagozi of Innovation Growth Hub; Bruce Lucas of Olotu Square; Edward Esene of Plus Innovation Hub and I from GoDo Hub where we discussed again about the need to restart the conversation and help other hub owners rethink their models so as to deepen innovation in Nigeria. That conversation led to a renewed vigour that made sure the light of ISN never died again. The fall out of this was an initial meeting of a few hubs at Impact Hub Lagos and from here a decision was taken to formally register with the CAC.

The Hub Owners Village was not available at the CAC and this led us to rethink the name which eventually became the Innovation Support Network (ISN) Hubs.

“The mission of ISN Hubs is to foster collaboration, inspire and support Nigerian Hubs, towards building a diversified economy that promotes the development of technology, innovation and the early-stage entrepreneurship ecosystem in Nigeria.

“Our clear goal was to reshape and deepen the footprints of the tech industry through collaborative efforts and forward-thinking strategies, engaging with local, national and international policy makers on the role of hubs in the support of job creation, social and commercial ventures in the Nigerian economy.

“From the initial discussions to the strategic planning sessions, I can still recall the passion that propelled our determination to bring this vision to life. I am indeed honored to have served on the board that created the framework on which our organization now rests,” a delighted CFA opined.

He expressed appreciation for the unwavering support of his fellow board members, our fantastic personnel, and the network of partners and stakeholders who shared in the Board’s vision.

CFA said, “The camaraderie we established, the ideas we exchanged, and the challenges we overcame have greatly enriched my experience beyond measure.

“Looking back at these four transformative years, and the lessons learnt, I can clearly say that leadership isn’t solely about making decisions but more about listening, learning, and adapting to situations and events as they arise. These imbibed skills have contributed to my success in the tech space especially within the Government circle where I now serve as the MD/CEO of the Anambra State ICT Agency.

“This is the era of innovation and unprecedented disruption hence, the demand for continuous innovation, and my journey has shown me that resilience, agility, and a willingness to embrace change are key elements for success.

“And now, a new chapter opens for our organization with the transition of leadership. The incoming directors, all possessing proven skills in diverse fields. I have no doubt that their expertise and passion, will help propel our legacy of innovation, inspiring the team to reach even greater heights.

“As I step down from my role as a founding board member, I do so with a heart full of gratitude. I feel blessed to have contributed to an organization that has made a meaningful impact in the innovation ecosystem.

“The journey continues, and I am excited to see the organization flourish under new leadership, continuing its mission to drive innovation, collaboration, and positive change.

“I urge us not to relent on supporting entrepreneurs who are trying to solve problems and build solutions for the benefit of our dear country!”

Mr. Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata “CFA”, the managing director/ chief executive officer, Anambra State ICT Agency, made the call when he appeared as a keynote speaker at last month’s conference of the International Igbo Professionals for Development (IIPD).

The conference with the theme ‘Aku Ruo Ulo, Ala Igbo Arise,’ aims to reawaken a sense of urgency among Ala-Igbo to work together to rebuild the Igbo Land across all tenets – governance, economic development, politics, infrastructure, tourism, education, health care and so forth.

In his presentation, Agbata observed that the absence of hi-speed fibre internet in major cities across the Southeast region, has mitigated the various opportunities in the technology industry that Igbo young people can latch onto, to unleash their potential.

According to him, considering the perception of Igbos on how they are being treated in the country, technology presents a viable option they can explore to create a viable regional economy that leverages technology all over.

This, he noted, was why the Anambra State Governor has taken initiatives to encourage broadband companies to come into the state, which include removal of Right of Way (RoW) for them as well as laying of fibre ducts across the state.

“The Southeast governors need to begin to explore the capabilities of technology to advance the region’s economy, to liberalize innovation by making hi-speed fibre internet available.

“Igbo governors must begin to exemplify excellence to inspire the younger generation in the tech area.

“The region must begin to push the right awareness and advocacy about the region to discourage the dominant negative stories about the region in the digital space.

“The thing about tech is that when you start, you can’t hold but when it materializes, the dividends are huge and massive.

“If all states can emulate and replicate what Anambra has been doing, there would have been a lot of activities going on in the tech area in the region, which will set Igbo land on a fast lane towards effective tech adoption,” Agbata said.

He revealed that the first phase of the fibre ducts laying in 200 kilometers in Awka will be completed by November and targets hi-speed fibre internet in government offices.

“We are now enabling the possibility of a fibre company being based in the Southeast.

“This is to empower civil servants who are critical in the work the government is doing. From there, we will upscale to the rest of the population in the next two to three years, where we want to cover up to 2000 kilometers,” he said.

CFA, who spoke on the prospects of technology for the technology, said to fully explore the potentials of technology in developing the Southeast, there must be a collaborative approach from government and the stakeholders.

According to him, “many of us clamour for change but do not want to take the pains. If we want to grow our homeland, it is important to grow our technology base. Technology cannot solve all our problems but it can solve a lot of our problems.”

Speaking of the accomplishments of Governor Chukwuma Soludo in the area of digitizing processes in the state governance, CFA revealed that what the State ICT Agency, which he heads does, is to bring the innovation and intentions of the staff into driving the already-crafted vision of Mr Governor of ‘Everything Technology and Technology Everywhere.’

“We have developed a lot of products and services for the public sector including automating the budgeting system, advancing telemedicine in collaboration with Ministry of Health, introduction of GIS services in land management systems, where Certificates of Occupancy, C of O, can now be gotten in two or three weeks as against the initial 6months lag and the goal is to get it to less than a week.

“With the leadership, we have ensured that Anambra is now the first in terms of ease of doing business in the Southeast and South-south because of the digital transformation initiatives introduced by the state governor. The government is also launching an Open Government Platform that will allow citizens to follow government projects and programmes.

“There is also the ICT policy that we have developed which is the first of its kind in the Southeast and South-south region and when the governor gives his imprimatur to it, it will help streamline activities in the ICT sector in Anambra. We are hoping to get the collaboration of the diasporan experts in the final development of the State ICT policy,” Agbata appealed.

The Anambra ICT boss who acknowledged that the State ICT Agency recognizes the premium the diasporan community places on trust and credibility, assured that the agency is committed through transparent operations, to restoring the people’s trust in public institutions.

“We are open to partnerships with the diaspora community to begin to diversify aspects of tech for the benefit of Ala Igbo.

“We have run solutions with tertiary institutions that had yielded in the Anambra E-ID cards for the public servants in the state and the successful implementation speaks to how seriously the agency takes Mr Governor’s stance on accountability and transparency seriously,” he concluded.

Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, popularly known as CFA, is a passionate believer in Nigeria’s tech ecosystem and a dedicated advocate for improving humanity through digital innovation. He has made significant contributions to technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation, across Africa and the world at large.

Birth and Education

Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata was Born some four decades ago to Engineer Godfrey Agbata and Mrs. Patricia Agbata in Lagos State.

His educational journey began at Umbrella Primary School and continued to Hopebay College and Badagry College for his secondary education, all in Lagos.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Ekiti State University and a CAM diploma in digital marketing and communication from the Chartered Institute of Marketing.

Career

Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata’s career is diverse and impactful, reflecting his multifaceted roles. He began as a customer service representative at Globacom in Lagos, Nigeria, and was an integral part of the team that championed the adoption of the first indigenous telecoms operator in Nigeria.

A combination of good and bad developments coupled with the then growing activities in the Nigerian innovation and tech space led to him launching his digital marketing and blogging career in 2009 via his personal blog.

The blog served as beginning of a journey that morphed into being a blogger, columnist, author, speaker, TV presenter, radio host, startup builder, tech policy advocate, venture capitalist, investor etc.

He spearheaded and hosted a tech program on Channels TV known as “Tech Trends”, from March 2015 up until April 2022 when he assumed the office of MD/CEO Anambra State ICT Agency.

The program played a pivotal role in cultivating an understanding of technology and its integration within Nigeria and stood as one of the fundamental platforms that gave voice to startups and the ecosystem in general on a national platform.

Appointments & Accomplishments

Prior to his appointment as MD/CEO, Anambra State ICT Agency by Prof Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR, the Governor of Anambra State, CFA co-founded Pacer Ventures, a venture fund that invests in African startups; Pacer Labs, a Software company, Techbuild.Africa, a platform chronicling innovation in Africa; Creative Space Startups (GoDo Hub), a social enterprise and innovation hub supporting women and youth development leveraging technology and Climate Action Africa, an initiative supporting the development of climate resilient communities in Africa. 

From 2017-2019, he organized CFA’s Startups Hangout, a monthly program that gave startups a platform to network with one another while learning from successful entrepreneurs how to grow their various ventures and establish relevant connections.

Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata continues to add value to the technology ecosystem directly and indirectly through his work with organizations such as Innovation Support Network Hubs where he serves the Director of Marketing, as treasurer of the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NIRA), and Founder Institute where he currently serves as the Regional Director for Africa.

He has received numerous awards of recognition both nationally and internationally.  He was given the Award of Excellence by the Nigerian Top Executives in the IT & Software Industry in 2015, as a result of his skills, perseverance and aspiration as a business leader with a significant impact on the international business network.

Also, in 2015 & 2016, he was listed among Nigeria’s 100 most innovative persons in Technology by ynaija.com as well as the 2015 ICT Journalist of the year by Beacon of ICT Awards.  

He also received the NiRA Presidential Award for Youth Development, by the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NIRA) in 2016. 

In 2018, he was invited by the Consul General of the Federal Republic of Germany, Ingo Herbert, to be part of the jury for the first Falling Walls Lab Lagos, which is a commemoration of the falling of the Berlin Wall.

He was invited again by the German Federal Foreign Office as a Visitors Programme of the Federal Republic of Germany for Digital Influencers to get a better understanding of the German digital and technology ecosystem. A part of the activities lined up was featured on the German National Blog. 

Also in 2018, he was a media panelist at the Deutsche WelleGlobal Media Forum (GMF) in Bonn, (Germany), where he discussed the role of journalistic start-ups in illiberal media systems. 

Also, Slush Global Impact Accelerator, a program created in collaboration with the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland and other multiple partners around the globe with the purpose of supporting impact startups and showcase the exciting business opportunities in emerging markets, selected CFA as one of the judges in Nigeria for the 2018 challenge. 

In January 2019, CFA was announced as one of the judges for the 2018 edition of the USPF Change-Maker Challenge with the theme ‘The Future Is Here: Disrupting Legacy Ecosystem with Technology.’

In June, 2019, CFA was invited by the Swedish Institute as one of the international experts to meet founders and entrepreneurs for renowned startups and large companies with a focus on innovation. Through the expert visit, the Instituted aimed to increase the participants’ knowledge and enable new collaborations with Swedish organisations.

Later on, in October of the same year, 2019, CFA received an invitation, from the Deputy Chairman of the FDP parliamentary group in the German Bundestag, Alexander Count Lambsdorff, to speak in Berlin, on the topic “Digitization in Africa”.

In 2022, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata was nominated for Global Startup Leadership awards.

The feat achieved out of over 35+ distinguished personalities nominated globally for this award is based on their impact in the startup ecosystem and new entrepreneurs.

The Global Startup Leadership Awards aims to highlight the top startup ecosystem and accelerator leaders helping activate and empower new entrepreneurs across the globe.

Chukwuemeka has evolved as one of the champions of the African innovation ecosystem based on his numerous activities and commentaries, aimed at supporting the growth of the digital economy, entrepreneurship, startups and the ecosystem in general.

Perhaps, it is for this and many more reasons that the then Governor-elect of Anambra State invited him to join his Transition Committee back in 2022, alongside 80 other highly-respected Nigerians from all walks of life. 

Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata’s as MD Anambra State ICT Agency

On January 18th 2022, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata was appointed into the Transition Committee of Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, marking a significant milestone in his career and his journey into public service.

As an advocate for digital innovation in Nigeria and Africa beyond, his appointment was a recognition of his expertise and contributions to the technology ecosystem. The appointment which birthed the Anambra State Transition Committee Report was subsequently followed by a re-appointment as the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Anambra State ICT Agency.

It is safe to say that Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata is prepared for the future given how fast the world is advancing in the twenty-first century. Through his deliberate foray into the digital world, CFA has carved a niche for himself in the technology ecosystem in Nigeria and beyond, and through his dedication at the Anambra State ICT Agency, is effectively driving the vision of Governor Soludo, towards building a digital tribe, a liveable and prosperous smart mega city, conscious of the new positive direction the world is headed.

The value he brings to Anambra state governance cannot be overemphasized and only time will reveal the promise his role in the the state’s digitization journey holds. 

As head of the Anambra State ICT Agency, CFA continues to spearhead giant digital transformation strides in the areas of E-government, standardization of Govtech solutions and digital assets, Broadband connectivity, Cloud Infrastructure, Digital Identity (E-ID Card), all-inclusive State ICT Policy and work tools for civil servants. These and many more are the initiatives being reeled out by the ICT Agency under the leadership of Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR.

In summary, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata’s personal profile can be categorized as a passionate tech ecosystem advocate, dedicated public servant, accomplished entrepreneur, and impactful influencer driving innovation and digital transformation in Nigeria.

The training was organized in conjunction with the State Ministry of Information, PA-CENT Technologies and Bonitas Technologies.

A brainchild of a media parley the practitioners had earlier last month with Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, the MD/CEO Anambra State ICT Agency, the train aligns with the ‘Everything Technology And Everywhere Technology’ vision of Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo.

It featured explosive sessions on Use Modern Media And Productivity Tools, Use of Artificial Intelligence for Content Creation and Personal Digital Assistance.

In an opening remark, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, CFA, the Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer, Anambra State ICT Agency, explained that the training became important to scale up the knowledge base of the journalists to be better equipped in the area of technology and be able to deploy the knowledge to improve their work.

Agbata, who spoke through his Technical Assistant, Mr. Sunday Folayan, reminded the journalists that the difference between successful and unsuccessful practitioners is the quality of knowledge, saying the State ICT Agency is poised to avail them every required assistance they need to leverage technology to develop themselves.

“Training is passed from generation to generation but as it makes you better, it makes your competitors better too. The question is who gets better.

“I encourage journalists to maximize the use of training to increase their knowledge of ICT so as to improve their works.

“The MD/CEO, Anambra ICT Agency, who believes so much in the vision of Mr. Governor that everything in the state must have a touch of technology and technology must be seen in everything, will ensure that the ICT agency will be available to follow up the trainees and that the knowledge garnered is well internalized and deployed to make their works better,” Folayan said on behalf of CFA.

The State Commissioner for Information, Sir Paul Nwosu who was represented by the Director for Information, Mr. Emma Ikegwuani, in his remarks hailed Governor Soludo for his technological strides in the state.

In his words; “We appreciate Governor Soludo because prior to his administration, we have not seen this kind of digital revolution.

“Our job as the State Ministry of Information is to reach Ndi Anambra and let them know what the government is doing. It takes time to review news same day and forward it to sources we feed because of the number but with the new ideas exposed to us in this workshop, leveraging technology, we can better deliver on our mandate and reach Ndi Anambra timely too.”

The CEO of PA-CENT Technologies, Dr. Ikechukwu Umeh in his remarks, said the training brings to the fore, the need for participants to understand that times have changed and it has become imperative to stay updated and be ready to adapt to merging technological trends that will make their work seamless. 

Mr. Somto Mezie-Okoye, of the Bonitas Technologies, in his goodwill message, stressed as an outstanding collaborator with ICT Agency, they are supporting the initiative, in engendering an upscale on the journalists’ skills.

“We are committed to helping the ICT Agency and the state government achieve its mantra of technology everywhere and everything technology across sectors in the state like we are doing today with the media

“Knowledge is not a one-off thing. It is a process so be sure to own what you learned today,” he said.

In his contribution, the Personal Assistant and Media Head for Nnewi South LGA, Dr. Orji Chukwudalu commended Governor Soludo, the Anambra ICT Agency and their partners for opening their eyes to some of the best ways to work especially when deadlines need to be met.

“I am particularly grateful for the knowledge garnered on Artificial intelligence and proof reading. I will be able to handle deliverables on prompt,” he added.

For Mr. Okechukwu Nwachinemelu, who also spoke on behalf of the participants from the Ministry of Information, they are appreciative to Mr. Governor for underscoring the need to digitize the state workforce and for the kind of work they do at the state ministry, they can now deliver faster.

The governor he said has given them computers and the knowledge will further expand their horizon on the deployment of digital tools.

In a vote of thanks on behalf of the Agency, the Tech Partnership and Digital Investment Lead, Mr. Jude Emesim praised Governor Soludo for his visionary leadership towards ensuring that the state is up-to-date with global trends, as technology is the new order.

“Many thanks to the solution Governor for not only providing the civil servants with digital tools but allowing them access more trending ways for doing their job especially leveraging AI technology.

“AI will not take people’s jobs from them; what will take their jobs from them is if they do not leverage AI to do their jobs more effectively,” he concluded.

The training which is the first batch in the series, also featured practical session where the media professionals worked with some modern media tools, as well as provided opportunity for them to ask questions and get responses on grey areas of such digital tools.