The Benue State Government has officially launched the 23,000 youth digital skills training programme, marking a major step in its drive to build a digitally skilled workforce and position the state strongly in the global digital economy.
The digital empowerment initiative is being implemented through the Benue Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC) in collaboration with Cisco Networking Academy and in partnership with AfDIC. The flag-off ceremony highlighted the administration’s commitment to digital transformation, youth empowerment and inclusive economic development across the state.
Speaking at the event through the Commissioner for ICT and Digital Economy, Hon. Kwaghgba Amande, Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to expand access to digital knowledge and technology for young people in Benue.
He commended Cisco Networking Academy for partnering with the state and praised BDIC for driving the implementation of the programme.
“This opportunity is one we have long worked towards. Since coming on board, expanding access to digital knowledge and technology has remained a top priority. We are determined to ensure that Benue youths are not left behind in the global digital revolution,” the Commissioner said.
The Commissioner also disclosed that the state government, in collaboration with the Head of Service and BDIC, is implementing a large-scale digital training programme for 40,000 civil servants.
He revealed that 10,000 civil servants across ministries and MDAs have already been trained, with the initiative now extended to local government levels.
According to him, all digital capacity-building programmes under the administration are offered free of charge as part of the government’s strategy to build capacity, create opportunities and empower citizens.
In his remarks, the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of BDIC, Hon. Gbande Hembaor Terwase, described the partnership with Cisco Networking Academy as a strategic move that will give Benue youths global relevance.
He noted that Cisco Networking Academy operates in over 130 countries and that certificates obtained through the platform are globally recognised and can open doors to international opportunities.
Terwase urged participants to remain committed throughout the training period, stressing that BDIC would also provide internship opportunities to participants after completing the programme.
He further announced the introduction of the “Talent Bank” initiative, designed to connect digitally skilled youths in Benue to employment opportunities.
Under the initiative, BDIC will also provide workspace facilities, including internet access and working tools, for participants who lack conducive working environments after job placement.
Highlighting BDIC’s achievements in strengthening the state’s digital ecosystem, Terwase disclosed that over 16 Ministries, Departments and Agencies have been connected with active fibre network infrastructure.
He also revealed that BDIC has entered into a contract manufacturing partnership with ITS to produce BDIC-branded computers and has partnered with Novus Microfinance Bank to enable civil servants acquire computers through flexible payment plans.
In addition, he said BDIC, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, has developed the Benue Educated Artisans Marketplace, a digital platform that allows residents to access verified local artisans across the state.
“These achievements are possible because the Governor has provided the enabling environment and resources necessary to drive digital innovation in Benue State,” he said.
Also speaking, the representative of Cisco Networking Academy, Mr Imo Akpan, commended the Benue State Government for prioritising digital skills development and investing in future workforce readiness.
“Technology has transformed every aspect of our lives. To thrive in today’s digital world, we must acquire the right skills. That is the essence of this training,” he said.
Akpan explained that the programme aligns with global workforce development standards and supports the state government’s digital economy agenda.
Participants at the ceremony expressed appreciation to the state government and BDIC for facilitating the partnership, describing the programme as a life-changing opportunity that would improve their digital competence and employability.
The launch of the 23,000 Benue Youth Free Digital Skills Training Programme is seen as a major step in the state’s broader digital transformation agenda, aimed at building a future-ready workforce capable of competing in the global digital economy.
