Benue Gov. Endorses ICT Training for 40,000 Civil Servants  

Makurdi, Nigeria  —  As part of efforts to modernize governance and enhance digital proficiency, Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has approved an extensive training program aimed at equipping 40,000 state and local government employees with skills in e-governance, data policy, regulatory compliance, and ICT advancement. 

The initiative aligns with the state’s broader vision to digitalize its economy and optimize public service delivery.

To drive this transformation, the Benue State Government has formalized a strategic partnership with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), ensuring a strong focus on data protection awareness and responsible governance.

Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony in Abuja, Benue State Commissioner for Communications and Digital Economy, Mr. Kwaghgba Amande, emphasized Governor Alia’s dedication to digital transformation, revealing that 20% of the state’s 2025 budget has been allocated to the ministry to spearhead this technological shift.

Commending the initiative, NDPC’s National Commissioner, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, highlighted its significance in safeguarding citizens’ data privacy while promoting compliance. He disclosed that the NDPC would oversee the training and certification of selected civil servants and youths under the National Certification Examination for Certified Data Protection Officers (CDPOs).

To ensure effective implementation, each Ministry, Department, and Agency (MDA), as well as Local Government Councils, will designate qualified Data Protection Officers (DPOs) to enforce compliance and promote a data-conscious public sector.

Further advancing the state’s digital agenda, Managing Director of the Benue Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC), Mr. Gbande Terwase, announced that the ICT training would be conducted in partnership with the Digital Bridge Institute. He also disclosed ongoing discussions with China to explore local manufacturing and branding of laptops for use within Benue State and beyond.

Additionally, BDIC has launched the “One Student, One Computer, One Digital Skill+” initiative, designed to equip students with essential technological competencies while ensuring adherence to data protection regulations.

With these strategic investments, Benue State is positioning itself as a leader in Nigeria’s digital transformation, fostering innovation, data security, and ICT-driven governance. A dedicated committee has been established to oversee the MoU’s implementation and drive the state’s digital agenda forward.

By Taiwo Olatinwo | February 21, 2025