The Sokoto State Government has reiterated its commitment to digital skills development and youth empowerment through strategic partnerships and innovative programs. This affirmation came during the opening of an ICT workshop themed Mastering Modern Productivity Tools, organized by the Sokoto Professional Network (SPN) in collaboration with Dan Anini Digital Solutions.
The event, held at Dan Kani Guest Inn, Sokoto, focused on equipping SPN graduate members with modern digital tools for improved productivity.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner of the Ministry of Innovation and Digital Economy (MIDE), Hon. Bashar Umar Kwabo, officially declared the workshop open. He emphasized the relevance of the initiative in today’s digital-driven world. “We are living in an era where productivity is defined by how effectively we apply digital tools to communicate, collaborate, and deliver results,” he said.
Hon. Kwabo commended SPN for organizing the impactful workshop and highlighted the state government’s dedication to digital transformation and youth development.
He pointed out several initiatives, including the creation of MIDE and the 10,000 Digital and Technical Skills Training Program. He also noted the recent passage of the Sokoto State Information and Communication Technology Development Agency (SICTDA) law as another major step in institutionalizing innovation across the state.
Further underlining the government’s digital agenda, he revealed that the Executive Governor had approved the establishment of the Sokoto Advisory Council on Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies.
“These efforts demonstrate our continued dedication to building a digitally inclusive society. However, their success depends on sustained collaboration with professional groups like the SPN and other credible private sector partners,” he concluded.
Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Economic Affairs, Alhaji Bashir Achida, described digital literacy as a major driver of economic development. He advised participants to remain proactive and apply their newly acquired skills to practical challenges. His remarks reinforced the importance of building a skilled workforce for the knowledge economy.
Earlier in the program, Alhaji Zayyanu Tambari Yabo, Chairman and Founder of the Sokoto Professional Network, welcomed the participants and highlighted the network’s key milestones.
According to him, SPN has successfully registered over 500 professionals across multiple sectors and has maintained strong engagements with major institutions, including the Sultanate Council and the Office of the Governor.
He shared that SPN has previously organized training in solar energy, entrepreneurship, leadership, and digital productivity. The network has also introduced mentorship initiatives and continues to hold annual general meetings as part of its commitment to professional development and career growth.
During his remarks, Maneer Malami Umar Tambuwal, Chairman of the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), Sokoto State Chapter, commended SPN for its progressive approach to digital empowerment. He described the training as a timely intervention and pledged NCS’s full support for all ongoing and future initiatives led by SPN and its partners.
In a goodwill message delivered on behalf of the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sani Umar Jabbi described SPN Chairman Alhaji Zayyanu Tambari Yabo as “an innovator with vision.”
He encouraged workshop participants to share the knowledge gained with their communities. He also emphasized that the Sultanate Council would continue to support projects that focus on youth development and the responsible application of digital technologies.
Dr. Shadi Sabeh, Vice Chancellor of Iconic Open University, Sokoto, addressed the attendees and advised them to take the opportunity seriously. He encouraged them to build practical digital skills that will be relevant in shaping their future careers and entrepreneurial paths.
Delivering a vote of thanks on behalf of SPN, Barr. Zainab Bello, Secretary and Legal Adviser of the network, expressed appreciation to all stakeholders for their ongoing support and encouragement. She noted that the success of the workshop was a result of collective efforts and the shared vision of digital inclusion.
The lead facilitator of the training session was Umar Kabir Dan Anini, Founder of Dan Anini Digital Solutions, who guided the participants through the practical aspects of mastering modern productivity tools.
The workshop recorded a high turnout of participants and attracted key officials from the Ministry of Innovation and Digital Economy. Among them were Mr. Murtala Nuhu, Director of ICT, as well as representatives from the Sokoto Information and Communication Technology Development Agency (SICTDA).
Notable attendees from the agency included Faruk Attahiru Jabo, Head of External Projects and Interventions; Buhari Mai Akwai, Head of Partnerships, Innovation, and Creativity; and Muhammad Abubakar, Head of Digital Media and Communications.
Others present at the workshop included Imrana Abubakar S. Fulani, Technical Assistant to the Permanent Secretary, along with active members of the Sokoto Professional Network.
