The 3-Day Train the Trainers (TOT) Program for Social Media Influencers and GSM Technicians has officially commenced in Maiduguri, drawing attention to the role of young people in shaping the digital economy. The program was declared open by the Executive Secretary of the Borno State Information and Communication Technology Development Agency (BICTDA), Hon. Engr. Mohammed Ahmed Kabir Wanori, FNSE.
Speaking at the opening, Engr. Wanori described the training as “a deliberate consolidation of Gov Borno His Excellency Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum’s 25-Year Development Plan, particularly in the area of human resource management.” He emphasized that social media influencers and GSM technicians are no longer passive players but important actors in digital entrepreneurship, civic participation, and the fight against misinformation.
Organized by BICTDA in partnership with ZOA and the European Union, the initiative focuses on equipping participants with AI-driven tools, ethical standards, and storytelling techniques. According to Engr. Wanori, “The future of Borno lies not only in physical infrastructure but also in the quality of its human capital. This training ensures that our young people are digitally empowered to contribute meaningfully to innovation, civic engagement, and economic progress.”
A goodwill message was presented by Abdulrahman Ahmed Bundi, Special Technical Assistant to the Governor, who praised the program as a timely investment in youth skills. A ZOA representative also commended the collaboration, describing it as a forward-looking strategy to enhance digital transformation across the state.
Day One of the training introduced modules on digital storytelling and the ethical application of Artificial Intelligence. Facilitators highlighted how AI can support effective content creation, social media marketing, and community engagement. The sessions also encouraged participants to adopt responsible digital practices that strengthen online trust.
The program will continue with practical lessons on social media marketing, the use of AI tools, and leveraging digital platforms as engines for business growth, with experts drawn from different parts of Nigeria to guide participants.
