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The Benue State Government has taken a bold step towards transforming the state into a digital economy hub with the official unveiling of the innovative “One Student, One Computer, One Digital Skill Plus” initiative. Launched on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, during the graduation of the inaugural Benue Summer Tech Training and the induction of Digital Benue Ambassadors at Nnam Hotel in Makurdi, the program aims to ensure every student gains access to essential digital devices and skills.
Represented by Deputy Governor Barr. Dr. Sam Ode, Governor Hyacinth Alia emphasized the multifaceted benefits of the initiative, including the development of employable skills in ICT fields such as programming, design, artificial intelligence, and entrepreneurship. The Governor highlighted that the program is poised to foster economic diversification through e-commerce, freelancing, and digital startups, while supporting sectors like agriculture, health, education, and commerce, thereby enabling Benue youth to become globally competitive, attract investments, and create local jobs.
Governor Alia reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to expand the Summer Tech Training programme across all 23 Local Government Areas, ensuring every child in Benue has access to the necessary tools and opportunities to thrive in the 21st-century digital economy. He also recapped significant strides in digital infrastructure development, including the deployment of fiber optic connectivity across 18 ministries, departments, and agencies, and the introduction of e-governance platforms and digitized workflows across critical sectors. This strategic roadmap positions Benue as a model of digital transformation in Nigeria.
Dada Olusegun, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Social Media, represented by Yansa Esetome Garba, lauded the state government’s commitment to nurturing a new generation of digital innovators. The event concluded with a presentation of certificates and customized tablets equipped with internet services to the graduates of the Summer Tech Training programme, symbolizing the government’s dedication to fostering digital literacy.
Dr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), represented by Mr. Ajayi Babajide Ayodimeji, the Zonal Office Coordinator, commended Benue for its forward-thinking approach and praised the state’s efforts to equip children with skills in software development, cybersecurity, and other digital disciplines. The Benue Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC) was also recognized for spearheading the state’s digital transformation, rolling out innovative platforms, and executing visionary projects like the Summer Tech Training programme.
“The Digital Benue vision is not just an idea, but a living reality,” Governor Alia emphasized. “Today, we celebrate our children who have gained foundational skills in digital literacy, software development, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. They are the trailblazers of a future powered by knowledge, innovation, and opportunity,” he added.
This landmark initiative marks a significant step toward transforming Benue into a digital economy hub, empowering its youth with the tools and skills needed to compete and innovate on a global scale.
