The unveiling ceremony, held at the Office of the Head of Service, marks another milestone in the administration of Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, drive to digitize the state civil service.

In his address, the Head of Service Mr Agbogbo Odeh expressed profound appreciation to the Executive Governor for creating an enabling environment for digital reform in the state. He noted that Governor Alia’s vision for a modern, technology-driven civil service has already begun yielding visible results in less than three years.

“His Excellency gave us a clear picture of what a digitally transformed civil service should look like and directed that the Ministry of ICT and Digital Economy be established immediately. Today, we are witnesses to that commitment,” he said.

He further disclosed that the initiative aligns with the ongoing digital skills training of over 43,000 civil servants across the state. According to him, providing affordable access to digital assets will complement the skills training and ensure that officers are properly equipped to function in a fully digitized economy.

The Head of Service commended the GMD/CEO of Benue Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC), Hon. Gbande Hembaor Terwase, AFCPN, for presenting the initiative and pledged the support of the civil service, formally declaring the project unveiled.

Representing the GMD/CEO of BDIC, Engr. Michael Idu, Head, Cooperate Services, BDIC, described the launch as a significant development in the state’s digital journey. He explained that the partnership between BDIC and Novus Microfinance Bank was designed to ensure that civil servants can own digital devices without the burden of upfront full payment.

He noted that through the platform, beneficiaries will access devices supplied by BDIC under a structured loan arrangement facilitated by Novus MFB, making digital tools more accessible and affordable.

Managing Director of Novus Microfinance Bank, Mrs. Patricia Goja emphasized that the institution remains committed to delivering practical financial solutions beyond conventional lending.

“Through EasyOwn, civil servants can now own essential devices and pay conveniently over time. Access to digital tools enhances efficiency, supports professional growth, and improves overall quality of life. This initiative is about empowerment and bridging the digital gap,” she stated.

In his vote of thanks, the representative of the Honourable Commissioner of ICT and Digital Economy Dr. Elvis Ogenyi, Permanent Secretary, Bureau of Service Welfare, Office of the Head of Service. described the partnership between BDIC and Novus MFB as a significant boost to the digitalization of the Benue civil service. He appreciated the state government, BDIC and Novus for driving a project that will strengthen service delivery and professional growth among civil servants.

The EasyOwn platform is expected to further accelerate the state’s digital transformation agenda, ensuring that Benue civil servants are not only trained but fully equipped to thrive in a modern digital economy.