The Borno State Government has reached another major milestone in its digital transformation journey with the presentation of four new ICT frameworks at the National Council for Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy meeting held in Jos. Representing the State, the Executive Secretary of the Borno State Information and Communication Technology Development Agency (BICTDA), Engr. Mohammed Ahmed Kabir Wanori, FNSE, submitted the Cybersecurity and Data Governance Framework, the Standardisation Policy for ICT Centres and Innovation Hubs, the Borno State Artificial Intelligence Strategy, and the Digital Literacy Policy and Skills Development Framework for federal approval and national adoption.
The four documents are designed to strengthen a secure, inclusive and innovation-driven digital ecosystem. According to officials, the policies are fully aligned with the Borno State ICT Strategic Roadmap (2024–2027), which places technology at the centre of post-conflict recovery, sustainable development and youth empowerment. Engr. Wanori explained that the State’s digital transformation is driven by resilience and the need to make sure that every citizen, including vulnerable groups such as women, youths and displaced persons, benefits from ongoing technological progress.
He highlighted that the updated Digital Literacy Framework expands on the existing national policy by focusing on customized training, improved rural access and a learning pathway that moves from basic ICT skills to more advanced areas like software development, cybersecurity and data analytics. He said this approach is meant to ensure that residents can participate in the digital economy regardless of their background or location.
A key feature of the new strategy is its emphasis on local content integration. The frameworks encourage the growth of indigenous ICT companies, support homegrown innovation and promote the use of local languages including Kanuri, Babur bura, marghi Hausa and Shuwa-Arabic in digital service delivery. Officials noted that this approach protects cultural identity while supporting economic development from within the State.
The Cybersecurity Framework introduces stronger standards for safeguarding citizen data and protecting government systems from threats. In addition, the Artificial Intelligence Strategy focuses on creating practical digital solutions in agriculture, healthcare, education and public safety. Authorities believe these solutions have the potential to generate thousands of digital jobs and strengthen economic participation across the State.
The Council Committee acknowledged that Borno’s policy submissions offer a strong model for national implementation, especially for states addressing development setbacks or security challenges. The frameworks also match federal goals under Nigeria’s digital economy agenda.
Borno State’s growing prominence in the technology space has earned national attention. The State was named first runner-up in the 2024 Subnational Digital Development Review, and the Governor recently received the Digital Governor of the Year award. “These frameworks represent our commitment to a secure, modern and inclusive digital future for every resident of Borno,” Engr. Wanori stated. “The future will not wait and Borno has chosen to lead it.”
With strategic policies, consistent leadership and expanding local talent, Borno State is positioning itself as a national leader in digital transformation.
