His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormen Alia, the Executive Governor of Benue State, made significant strides in advancing the digital future of Benue State during his attendance at the just concluded GITEX Global 2024 event in Dubai, held from 14th to 18th October, 2024 at the famous World Trade Center.
The highlight of His Excellency’s participation at the event was the formalization of a strategic partnership between the Benue State Government, and ENVNT, a Saudi Arabian leading global IT firm to be implemented by the Benue Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC).
The collaboration focuses on the expansion of digital infrastructure across the state and the establishment of the Benue Digital Technology Institute(BDTI). The institute is expected to drive innovation, produce a skilled workforce, and enhance sectors such as education, healthcare, and smart agriculture, ultimately boosting Benue State’s GDP.
Accompanying His Excellency on this transformative ICT journey were key government officials, including, Hon. Kwaghgba Amande, the Honourable Commissioner of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Mr. Gbande Hembaor Terwase, Managing Director/CEO Benue Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC) and Comrade Angula Bishop Reuben, Private Secretary/PSA to the Governor on ICT & New Media.
Together, they engaged in high-level discussions with key global stakeholders in the areas of ICT, Agriculture, Healthcare, Education, and Mining, enhancing Benue’s international partnerships and solidifying its place as a future digital hub.
His Excellency’s further engagements at GITEX includes pivotal meetings with:
1. Head of Digital Health, BRM, Dubai Health – Exploring innovations to enhance healthcare in Benue.
2. CEO, Technology Innovation Institute, Dubai – Discussing research and innovation collaborations.
3. Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office – Deliberating trade and investment prospects.
4. Dubai Government Human Resources Department – Focusing on digital workforce development.
5. Consular General, Korean Consulate – Exploring digital collaboration and technology transfer.
6. Office of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed Bin Faisal – Strengthening ties with Emirati leaders on digital governance.
7. Department of Health, SEHA Dubai – Exploring advanced healthcare solutions.
8. Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) – Engaging in fintech and investment discussions.
9. India IT Ministry – Facilitating knowledge exchange on digital infrastructure.
10. Manager, Communications and Outreach, Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy – Discussing partnerships to boost Benue’s digital economy.
11. Swiss Government – Engaging in capacity building and tech collaborations.
12. Fujairah Police General Headquarters – Exploring smart security and law enforcement technology.
13. Office of the Prime Minister of Dubai amongst other many others.
These engagements have laid a robust foundation for Benue’s transformation through global partnerships, positioning it to become a leader in digital innovation and infrastructure development in Nigeria.
