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From Chinenye Anuforo
The Benue State Government has launched a free digital skills training programme targeting 23,000 youths, in a major push to deepen digital empowerment and prepare a globally competitive workforce.
The initiative, implemented through the Benue Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC) in collaboration with Cisco Networking Academy and supported by AfDIC, was formally unveiled in Makurdi.
Speaking on behalf of Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, the Commissioner for ICT and Digital Economy, Kwaghgba Amande, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to digital transformation and youth development, noting that expanding access to technology-driven knowledge remains a priority.
He commended Cisco Networking Academy for the partnership and praised BDIC for driving implementation, stressing that the government is determined to ensure Benue youths are not excluded from opportunities in the global digital economy.
Amande also disclosed that the state, in collaboration with the Head of Service, is currently executing a large-scale digital capacity programme for 40,000 civil servants. According to him, 10,000 workers across ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) have already been trained, with the initiative extended to local government levels.
“All these programmes are provided free of charge because of the administration’s resolve to build capacity, create opportunities and empower citizens for the future,” he said.
In his remarks, BDIC’s Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Gbande Hembaor Terwase, described the partnership with Cisco Networking Academy, an institution operating in over 130 countries as a strategic pathway to global relevance for Benue youths.
He urged participants to remain committed throughout the training, adding that BDIC would provide internship placements after completion and has introduced a “Talent Bank” platform designed to connect digitally skilled youths with employment opportunities.
Terwase explained that the company would also provide workspace facilities, including internet access and work tools, for beneficiaries without conducive working environments once they secure placements.
Highlighting progress in strengthening the state’s digital ecosystem, he listed key achievements to include fibre connectivity for more than 16 MDAs, a contract manufacturing partnership to produce BDIC-branded computers, and a collaboration with a microfinance bank enabling civil servants to acquire computers through flexible payment plans.
He further noted the development of the Benue Educated Artisans Marketplace, created with the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment to provide residents digital access to verified local artisans.
Also speaking, Cisco Networking Academy representative, Imo Akpan, commended the state government’s leadership in prioritising digital skills development, describing the training as critical to thriving in a technology-driven world.
He said the programme aligns with global workforce development standards and would provide participants with internationally recognised certification, positioning them for opportunities within and beyond Nigeria.
Participants at the event expressed appreciation to the government and BDIC, describing the initiative as life-changing and capable of enhancing employability while opening pathways to global careers.
The launch of the 23,000-beneficiary training scheme signals a significant step in Benue’s broader digital transformation agenda, anchored on strategic partnerships, inclusive policies and sustained political commitment to building a future-ready workforce.
