On Wednesday, December 10, 2024, the Benue Digital Infrastructure Company PLC (BDIC) reached a pivotal milestone in its quest to transform Benue State into a digital innovation hub. The Managing Director/CEO of BDIC, Terwase Gbande-Hembaor, and his team formalized a landmark partnership with the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), Abuja. This collaboration underscores a mutual commitment to advancing digital innovation, capacity-building, and skills development within the state.
Key Features of the MoU
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between BDIC and DBI paves the way for impactful initiatives aimed at fostering digital transformation. The highlights of the partnership include:
- Establishment of Digital Economy and E-Governance Technology Centers: Two state-of-the-art centers will be developed to serve as hubs for digital innovation and governance enhancement in Benue State.
- Digital Skills Training Across 23 BDIC Hubs: The collaboration will facilitate extensive digital skills training across BDIC’s 23 digital hubs, enabling the widespread dissemination of critical digital competencies to various communities.
DBI, an International Centre for Advanced Communications Studies established by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) in 2004, brings a wealth of expertise in ICT capacity-building across Africa. Their collaboration with BDIC aligns seamlessly with BDIC’s mission to deploy cutting-edge digital solutions and foster public sector transformation in Benue State.
Leadership Remarks
Terwase Gbande, MD/CEO of BDIC:
“This partnership with DBI represents a crucial milestone in our mission to transform Benue into a digital hub. By leveraging DBI’s expertise, we aim to deliver impactful digital solutions and training programs that benefit all stakeholders in the state.”
David Daser, President of DBI:
“Our collaboration with BDIC underscores the importance of capacity building and technology-driven initiatives in achieving sustainable development. Together, we will contribute to creating a robust digital ecosystem in Benue State.”
Driving the Digital Benue Plan Strategy
This strategic partnership is a cornerstone of the Digital Benue Plan Strategy, which seeks to position Benue State as a leader in digital transformation and governance. Key objectives of the strategy include:
- Empowering Citizens Through Knowledge: The establishment of digital economy and e-governance centers will provide citizens with the skills and resources needed to thrive in the digital age.
- Enhancing Public Sector Efficiency: The initiative supports the deployment of technology-driven solutions that optimize governance processes and improve service delivery.
- Building a Knowledge-Based Economy: By equipping communities with digital skills, the project fosters innovation and creates opportunities for economic growth.
A Vision for Sustainable Development
The collaboration between BDIC and DBI goes beyond immediate goals; it establishes a framework for long-term digital innovation and sustainability. The initiative aligns with the vision of His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormen Alia, Executive Governor of Benue State, who has been a steadfast advocate for leveraging technology to drive socio-economic progress.
Transforming Benue State Through Collaboration
By integrating the expertise of DBI with the infrastructure and vision of BDIC, this partnership exemplifies the power of collaboration in achieving transformative change. Together, BDIC and DBI are laying the groundwork for a digitally empowered Benue State, where innovation drives progress, and opportunities abound for all citizens.
This MoU not only marks a significant achievement for BDIC but also reinforces its commitment to creating a future-ready Benue State, where digital skills and technology serve as catalysts for sustainable development.
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