Benue State Civil Service Embraces Digital Transformation at Key Stakeholders Meeting
Makurdi, December 2024 – The Benue Digital Infrastructure Company PLC (BDIC), in collaboration with the Office of the Head of Service and the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, hosted a significant Stakeholders Engagement Meeting to discuss the implementation of the Benue State Digital Economy Strategy and Government Digital Services Management. This event gathered Permanent Secretaries, Directors, and Deputy Directors from various state ministries, agencies, and departments, as they strategized on how to collectively drive the digital transformation agenda for the state.
The meeting opened with remarks from Hon. Kwaghgba Amande, the Commissioner for Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy. Hon. Amande emphasized the government’s strong commitment to using digital technologies as a tool for improving governance and service delivery. He noted that the engagement marked a defining moment in the state’s efforts to modernize and enhance the efficiency of the public sector through digitalization. “This is a crucial step in positioning Benue State as a leader in digital governance,” he said.
Dr. Moses Agbogbo Ode, the Head of Service, also shared his vision for the digital transformation of the state’s civil service. In his address, Dr. Ode underscored the indispensable role of civil servants in the success of the digital economy strategy. He encouraged participants to fully embrace digitalization and see it as an opportunity to streamline government operations and enhance service delivery. “As the backbone of governance, the Civil Service is vital in driving this transformation,” Dr. Ode said. “We must champion these reforms to ensure greater efficiency, accountability, and improved revenue generation across ministries and departments.”
The Chief of Staff to the Executive Governor, Rt. Hon. Paul Biam, reiterated the state government’s unwavering support for the digital transformation agenda. He highlighted Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormen Alia’s vision for a modern and efficient Benue State, noting that the administration had already laid the groundwork by establishing key institutions, securing international partnerships, and allocating necessary resources for the initiative. “This transformation is not just a goal—it is a mandate,” Rt. Hon. Biam stated. “With the right framework, commitment, and collaboration, we will modernize governance and elevate the state’s digital economy.”
Barr. Dooshima Ortserga, Director of Public Prosecution, spoke on behalf of the Honourable Attorney-General and emphasized the importance of a robust legal and regulatory framework to guide the digital transformation. She explained that the state’s digital agenda would adhere to both state and federal laws, ensuring that data security, transparency, and accountability are integral to every step of the process. “The legal framework is essential in protecting the integrity of our digital systems,” she remarked. “By creating a compliant environment, we are building a foundation of trust and accountability.”
Mr. Gbande Hembaor Terwase, MD/CEO of BDIC, then took the floor to discuss the company’s role in the state’s digital transformation efforts. He presented an overview of the key digital infrastructure initiatives, including the roll-out of e-filing systems, integrated data platforms, and other digital services designed to enhance governance and service delivery. Mr. Terwase stressed BDIC’s commitment to creating a cohesive digital infrastructure that supports e-governance, improves operational efficiency, and fosters economic growth. “At BDIC, we are dedicated to building the digital framework that will support every aspect of governance, from service delivery to economic development,” he said.
Mr. Solomon Adagba, Director-General of the Benue Digital Infrastructure Services and Management Enforcement Agency (BENDISMEA), followed with an explanation of the regulatory framework that will ensure the smooth and standardized implementation of the digital transformation agenda. He assured the attendees that BENDISMEA’s role was vital in safeguarding government data, ensuring regulatory compliance, and maintaining a high standard of digital service delivery across the state. “BENDISMEA is committed to ensuring that all ICT operations are aligned with the state’s vision for a unified digital governance system,” Mr. Adagba noted.
As the meeting drew to a close, the participants were urged to take immediate action in embracing and leading the implementation of the state’s digital economy strategy. With strong institutional support, a clear legal framework, and collaboration among all stakeholders, Benue State is poised to become a model of efficient and innovative governance. The digital transformation not only aims to enhance service delivery but also to provide the people of Benue with the tools needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world. Through this collective effort, the state will continue to move toward a future of modernized, transparent, and accountable governance, setting a benchmark for digital transformation across the country.
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