FIC Report (Benue State) – The Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to advancing digital literacy, job creation, and innovation in the state.
Governor Alia performed the official unveiling ceremony during the graduation of the inaugural Benue Summer Tech Training and the induction of the Digital Benue Ambassadors on Wednesday, 3rd September 2025, at Nnam Hotel, Makurdi.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Barr. Dr. Sam Ode (mni), the Governor commended the Benue Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC) for spearheading the state’s digital transformation through the deployment of critical infrastructure, innovative platforms, and visionary projects such as the Summer Tech Training programme.
“The Digital Benue vision is not just an idea, but a living reality,” the Governor emphasised. “Today, we celebrate our children who have gained foundational skills in digital literacy, software development, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. They are the trailblazers of a future powered by knowledge, innovation, and opportunity.”
He stressed that the initiative provides employable skills in ICT—including programming, design, AI, and entrepreneurship—while also creating pathways for economic diversification through e-commerce, freelancing, and digital startups.
Governor Alia announced plans to expand the Summer Tech Training programme across all 23 Local Government Areas, ensuring every child in Benue has access to 21st-century digital skills.
On digital infrastructure, the Governor revealed that the state has already deployed fiber optic connectivity across 18 MDAs, introduced e-governance platforms, and digitised workflows in critical sectors, positioning Benue as a model for digital transformation in Nigeria.
In his goodwill message, Dr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director-General of NITDA (represented by Mr. Ajayi Babajide Ayodimeji), commended Benue’s forward-thinking digital vision and highlighted the potential of ICT skills to generate wealth and employment.
Also speaking, Dada Olusegun, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Social Media (represented by Yansa Esetome Garba), lauded the state government’s commitment to nurturing a new generation of digital innovators.
The ceremony featured the presentation of certificates and customised internet-enabled tablets to the graduates, symbolising the state government’s dedication to equipping Benue youth for global competitiveness.
Signed
Bridget Udoo Tarker
For: Head of Center,
FIC makurdi
