BDIC Graduates First Summer Tech Bootcamp Cohort, Inducts Digital Ambassadors, and Unveils “One Student, One Computer, One Skill+” Initiative Portal.
The Benue Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC) has recorded a landmark achievement with the successful graduation of the first cohort of its Summer Tech Bootcamp, the induction of Benue Digital Ambassadors, and the official unveiling of the “One Student, One Computer, One Skill+” platform.
The ceremony, held at Nnam Hotel, Makurdi, was graced by the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, ably represented by the Deputy Governor, Engr. Sam Ode, mni.
In his welcome remarks, Finbaw G. Ngufan, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Communication & Digital Economy, applauded BDIC’s vision, commending Benue State for “taking a bold step into the future, where our children are not only nurtured with values, but also equipped with the digital skills and knowledge that define greatness in the 21st century.”
Dignitaries in attendance included:
• DG NITDA, Mallam Kashifu Inuwa, represented by Ajayi Babajide Ayodimeji, Director of Zonal Office Coordination.
• Mrs. Grace Finbar, Covering Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Communication & Digital Economy.
• Mr. Benjamin Ashar, Focal Person, Benue Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprise.
• Prof. Terkura Tarnande, DG Benue Public Service Institute.
• Hon. Kwaghgba Amande, Commissioner-designate.
• Galaxy Backbone delegation led by Mr. Auwalu Salisu (Head, Cybersecurity Unit), Mr. Bamanga Faruk, and Mr. Achojo Orumah.
• Comrade Bemdoo Ugber, Chairman, NUJ Benue State Council.
• Representatives from Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University.
• Dr. Joseph Jande, Board Secretary SUBEB, representing Dr. Grace Adagba, Executive Chairman SUBEB.
• Mrs. Asabe Ak’mordi, Zonal Director, NTA Makurdi, and Mrs. Susan Omale, Asst. Director Programmes, NTA Makurdi.
In a remark by Hon. Terwase Gbande, MD/CEO of BDIC, he reaffirmed BDIC’s mandate: “to drive digital transformation in Benue State through soft infrastructure, hard infrastructure, and knowledge infrastructure.”
Participants who specialized in web development and cybersecurity shared testimonies of the program’s transformative impact, pledging to continue their digital learning journey.
Representing the Governor, the Deputy Governor Engr. Sam Ode lauded the initiative, highlighting Governor Alia’s digital foresight. He conferred the titles of Digital Benue Child and Digital Benue Youth on participants and unveiled the One Student, One Computer, One Skill+ platform, a groundbreaking initiative that positions Benue as a beacon of innovation and youth empowerment.His excellency also stated that it is worth noting that in 2024, Governor Alia was recognized as Digital Governor of the Year, affirming Benue’s position as a leader in digital transformation, second only to Lagos.
The event drew over 360 participants. Parents expressed deep gratitude to BDIC’s leadership and staff, the State Government, and partners for investing in the future of Benue’s children and youth.
This milestone marks only the beginning. With plans to extend the Summer Tech Bootcamp across all 23 Local Government Areas, BDIC is driving Benue into a new era of creativity, innovation, and global competitiveness.
