By: Mnena Iyorkegh, Abuja.
Benue State Government, Central Nigeria has signed a memorandum of understanding with a nongovernmental organization; Gamint Corporate Ltd on the establishment of an outfit known as Benue Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC).
The partnership underscores the government’s commitment to creating a digitally inclusive society, fostering economic growth, and enhancing the quality of life for its citizens.
The BDIC project also represents a substantial investment in Benue State’s digital future, with a focus on providing high-speed internet access, enhancing digital literacy, and driving technological innovation throughout the state.
In his remark during the signing of the MoU, the Deputy Governor of Benue State and Chairman BDIC Implementation Committee, Dr. Sam Ode, said:
“This MOU signifies a critical milestone in our efforts of His Excellency Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia’s, led administration to bridge the digital divide in Benue State. The establishment of BDIC will not only bolster our digital infrastructure but also unlock new opportunities for our youth, stimulate local businesses, and position Benue State as a beacon of technological innovation.”
The Deputy Governor, explained that the collaboration marks the birth of the Benue Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC), a pioneering initiative aimed at revolutionizing digital services across the region.
“Being conscious of the need to reposition Benue State to align with the international best practices in the provision of the Digital Infrastructure project for the service of the state and beyond, the Benue State Governor approved the BID project.
“We are going to move away from the normal bureaucratic bottle necks that usually impede the smooth implementation of progrmmes and projects for governments. For those of you in the corporate world, your biggest fear in dealing with government and its agencies is bureaucratic bottle necks, and the second aspect of it is corruption. Benue state government is bold enough to embrace technology. We want to join the rest of the World to do what is right at all times. And so we have decided that we will move with the speed of light and work the talk,” he added.
According to the Commissioner for Communication and Digital Economy, Kwaghgba Amande, BDIC will leverage cutting-edge technologies and global best practices to ensure Benue State remains at the forefront of the digital innovation.
“The Benue State Government is dedicated to fostering economic development, improving public services, and enhancing the quality of life for its citizens. Through strategic partnerships and innovative initiatives, the project aims to transform Benue State into a model of sustainable growth and development, to achieve a digital inclusive and economically vibrant Benue State by making all government business activities within the state digitally complaint.” He said.
Also speaking, the Chief Executive Officer, Gamint Corporate Ltd, Mr. Terwase, Gbande, said the organization is committed to driving technological advancement and innovation across Africa.
Mr Gbande expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, adding that: “We are privileged to collaborate with the Benue State Government on this transformative project. Leveraging our expertise in digital solutions, alongside the government’s vision, will pave the way for a brighter, more connected future for the people of Benue,” he said.
Benue Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC) plans to establish digital hubs across all twenty-three local government areas of Benue State and aims to train forty-six thousand youths, empowering them with essential digital skills and tools.
