The Startup Ecosystem Build-Up, organized by Benue Digital Infrastructure Company PLC (BDIC) in collaboration with UNDP Nigeria through the Benue Agro Innovation Hub (BAIHub), convened startups, innovators, techpreneurs, and entrepreneurs on Friday, 7th February, 2025 in Makurdi to foster innovation and digital entrepreneurship.
The gathering, which lasted over two hours, hosted more than 60 participants, providing a crucial platform for startups to showcase their projects, discuss challenges within the ecosystem, explore opportunities, receive mentorship, and foster collaboration.
Challenges and Opportunities for Startups in Benue:
The Group Head for Startup Support, Innovative Solutions, Digital Skills, and Capacity Building at BDIC, Mr. Solomon Yateghtegh, highlighted concerns over startups and innovators leaving Benue State for Lagos in search of better opportunities when similar support structures are available within the state.
To bridge this awareness gap, five startups had the opportunity to pitch their solutions and innovations to the audience, receiving valuable feedback and insights on improving their ventures.
Expert Insights on Startup Growth and Protection:
The panel session, moderated by Mary Oigocho, Focal Person for BAIHub Makurdi, featured distinguished speakers, including:
Ivry Odia, Senior Enterprise Account Manager, CloudPlexo Pro Labs Ltd (AWS Partner) – who spoke on the vast opportunities available through Amazon Web Services (AWS) and how startups can attract support from AWS.
Mr. Karkaa Joel Shirgba, Unit Head for Innovative Solutions, BDIC – who emphasized the importance of intellectual property (IP) rights, trademark protection, and patent registration to safeguard startup innovations.
Commitment to Benue’s Digital Transformation and Startup Ecosystem:
Speaking on behalf of Hon. Terwase Gbande, Managing Director/CEO of BDIC, Mr. Solomon Yateghtegh reaffirmed BDIC’s commitment to building a thriving and digitally inclusive startup ecosystem in Benue State.
Key highlights of his speech included:
• His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, Executive Governor of Benue State, remains deeply committed to the digital revolution in the state. His administration is dedicated to equipping youth with digital skills, expanding employment opportunities, and positioning Benue startups for global exposure and investment.
Through his leadership, Benue entrepreneurs will have opportunities to participate in international tech expos and gain strategic business partnerships.
• BDIC’s 4-in-1 Strategic Plan for Startups, which includes:
I. Startup Ecosystem Build-Up (Ecosystem Strengthening)
II. Hackathon (Innovation Challenge)
III. Incubation Program (Startup Growth & Acceleration)
IV. Benue Innovation Week (Networking & Exposure)
• Encouragement for startups to leverage BDIC’s infrastructure, resources, and partnerships to accelerate their growth, attract funding, and access mentorship opportunities.
Startups in attendance expressed enthusiasm and strong interest in BDIC’s initiatives, recognizing the state government’s unwavering commitment to driving digital skills, innovation, and economic transformation.
Special Appreciation:
A heartfelt appreciation goes to UNDP Nigeria and BAIHub for their collaboration in making this event a success, as well as to all stakeholders dedicated to building a robust and globally competitive startup ecosystem in Benue State.
Benue’s digital future is bright, and with Governor Alia’s visionary leadership and BDIC’s strategic execution, the state is set to become a hub for tech-driven entrepreneurship, job creation, and innovation.
