The Benue Digital Infrastructure Company PLC (BDIC), under the visionary leadership of Managing Director/CEO Terwase Gbande, has announced a groundbreaking initiative aimed at bridging the digital divide within Benue State. On December 12, 2024, BDIC formalized a strategic partnership with Oasis Content Ltd, Abuja, to deliver satellite-enabled internet connectivity to underserved and unserved communities as part of the transformative Unconnected.org Project.
A Bold Step Toward Digital Inclusion
This initiative is a cornerstone of BDIC’s comprehensive strategy to extend high-speed internet access to educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and business hubs across rural and urban areas of Benue State. By facilitating connectivity, it also supports the deployment of 48 advanced digital infrastructure and e-governance services. These services are designed to revolutionize public service delivery, optimize governance processes, and provide citizens with seamless access to essential services.
Launching the Proof of Concept Phase
The Proof of Concept (POC) phase of this initiative will commence within the next two weeks, targeting two schools and two healthcare facilities as pilot locations. This phase is a critical step toward demonstrating the potential of satellite-enabled internet to transform key sectors, including education, healthcare, and community development. The POC will not only showcase the feasibility of scaling the project but also highlight its profound impact on enhancing quality of life and fostering socio-economic growth in Benue State.
An Alliance for Progress
The agreement, signed in Abuja, is a testament to BDIC’s commitment to collaboration and innovation. It aligns seamlessly with the Digital Benue initiative spearheaded by His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormen Alia, Executive Governor of Benue State. Governor Alia’s administration has consistently championed the integration of digital technologies as a means to unlock the economic and social potential of the state. This project is anticipated to create significant job opportunities for youth in host communities, drive innovation, and stimulate growth across key economic sectors.
Statements of Commitment
During the signing ceremony, Terwase Gbande, Managing Director/CEO of BDIC, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating:
“This collaboration underscores our unwavering commitment to ensuring no community is left behind in the digital age. The Proof of Concept phase marks a pivotal moment in our journey to expand connectivity and empower communities across Benue State. We are not just building infrastructure; we are laying the groundwork for a brighter, more inclusive future.”
In his remarks, the CEO of Oasis Content Ltd, Dr. Adewale Fagbohun, highlighted the significance of the project, emphasizing the role of connectivity in bridging gaps and fostering innovation. “This partnership with BDIC will unlock opportunities for communities that have historically been excluded from the digital ecosystem. Together, we will redefine what it means to be connected.”
Transforming Benue Through Technology
The deployment of satellite-enabled internet and the planned rollout of 48 e-governance services underscore BDIC’s leadership in driving digital transformation and sustainable development. By bridging the connectivity gap, this initiative will:
- Empower educational institutions with the tools needed to provide quality learning experiences.
- Enhance healthcare delivery by facilitating telemedicine and real-time access to medical resources.
- Boost local economies by creating opportunities for digital entrepreneurship and innovation.
- Strengthen governance through data-driven decision-making and efficient service delivery.
Aligning with a Digital Vision
The initiative reinforces Benue State’s position as a leader in digital innovation and preparedness. By connecting communities to the global digital economy, BDIC and its partners are not only addressing present challenges but also laying a sustainable foundation for long-term prosperity.
This partnership between BDIC and Oasis Content Ltd is more than a project; it is a commitment to creating a connected, inclusive, and empowered Benue State. Together, they are turning the vision of a fully digital Benue into a transformative reality.
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