Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State is leading a groundbreaking digital revolution aimed at transforming the state into a hub of technological innovation and economic growth. Through strategic partnerships, infrastructure development, and digital literacy initiatives, his administration is laying the foundation for a technologically advanced and economically vibrant Benue State.
Benue Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC): The Driving Force
At the core of this transformation is the Benue Digital Infrastructure Company PLC (BDIC), established to drive the state’s digital economy and e-governance initiatives. Under the leadership of Managing Director/CEO Terwase Gbande, BDIC is interfacing with key federal government entities like the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC), Nigeria Broadcasting Commission (NBC), and Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC)to acquire the requisite regulatory documents and also install the necessary infrastructure that will ensure the seamless deployment of cutting-edge connectivity technology that enhances governance and fosters economic development.
BDIC is also implementing 48 digital solutions across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to improve service delivery, operational efficiency, and communication within the government. By leveraging advanced digital tools, Benue State is streamlining its operations and positioning itself as a leader in e-governance.
Strategic Partnerships for Digital Growth
Governor Alia’s administration has forged key partnerships to expand the state’s digital infrastructure. In October 2024, the state signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with EVNT Technologies, a leading Saudi Arabian IT solutions provider. This collaboration focuses on digital infrastructure expansion, skills training, application development, and policy formulation—critical components of the government’s digital transformation agenda.
Further reinforcing this vision, Benue State partnered with Huawei Technologies in November 2024 to launch the “Smart Benue State” program. This initiative is set to modernize infrastructure, enhance security, and create job opportunities across key sectors such as healthcare, education, and security. Governor Alia emphasized that the partnership with Huawei will drive economic growth and establish Benue as a model for technological advancement in Nigeria.
Empowering Youth Through Digital Literacy and Skills Training
A key aspect of Governor Alia’s digital strategy is empowering Benue’s youth with critical digital skills. BDIC is spearheading an ambitious initiative to train 23,000 youth annually—1,000 from each of the state’s 23 local government areas. This initiative is being implemented in collaboration with the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) program under the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy.
BDIC’s Managing Director, Terwase Gbande, on Tuesday, January 21, 2025 engaged in a strategic virtual meeting to finalize preparations for rolling out the training under the 3MTT Cohort 3 framework. This initiative aligns with the state government’s broader goal of equipping young people with the necessary skills to thrive in the digital economy, reducing unemployment, and fostering innovation-driven entrepreneurship.
Additionally, Benue State has partnered with Google to train 10,000 youths in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), further solidifying the administration’s commitment to digital literacy. Governor Alia highlighted that this initiative would provide young people with job-ready skills, helping them transition into the global tech ecosystem while reducing the risk of cybercrime.
Leveraging Technology for Security Enhancement
Recognizing the security challenges facing Benue State, Governor Alia’s administration is integrating advanced digital solutions to improve safety and combat crime. As part of the “Smart Benue State” initiative, the government is deploying AI-powered security analytics, real-time crime monitoring platforms, and smart surveillance systems.
To bolster urban security, the state is rolling out CCTV networks with AI-based facial recognition and license plate tracking technologies. In rural areas, where criminal activities are prevalent, drones and geospatial mapping tools are being deployed for real-time monitoring. Furthermore, the state is developing a central command center to integrate emergency response units, law enforcement agencies, and digital communication systems, ensuring a coordinated and rapid response to security threats.
Conclusion
Governor Hyacinth Alia’s forward-thinking approach to digital transformation is setting Benue State on a path toward technological excellence and economic prosperity. Through strategic partnerships, digital infrastructure development, security enhancements, and large-scale digital skills training programs, his administration is fostering a dynamic, technology-driven future. By empowering youth, enhancing security, and modernizing governance, Benue State is positioning itself as a beacon of innovation in Nigeria and beyond.
Terkula Igidi,
Head, Media & Corporate Communications Unit, BDIC can be reached @terkula.igidi@bdic.ng
