On December 16, 2024, the Managing Director/CEO of Benue Digital Infrastructure Company PLC (BDIC), Gbande Hembaor Terwase, led his management team in signing a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA) and the Benue State Bureau of Homeland Security (BSBHS). This groundbreaking collaboration exemplifies the visionary leadership of Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormen Alia, Executive Governor of Benue State, whose commitment to digitalization is steering Benue towards a secure, innovative, and technologically advanced future.
Driving Digital Transformation
This strategic partnership signifies a bold leap toward leveraging state-of-the-art digital technologies to enhance security, improve emergency response systems, and address humanitarian challenges across Benue State. It underscores Governor Alia’s unwavering dedication to building a digitally-driven state, ensuring both immediate and long-term solutions to public safety and development.
BDIC’s Contributions to the Initiative
BDIC, as the technological lead, is spearheading the development, deployment, and management of advanced digital solutions aligned with global standards. Key areas of BDIC’s involvement include:
- Benue State Emergency Service Management Information System (BSES-MIS): BDIC will design and implement the integrated BSES-MIS, enabling real-time surveillance, efficient data collection, and seamless coordination in IDPs’ resettlement homes and during emergencies. This system will empower BSEMA to enhance response times, allocate resources effectively, and make informed decisions.
- Emergency Command and Control Center Infrastructure: BDIC will install cutting-edge infrastructure in the command and control center established by BSEMA at its headquarters. This hub will facilitate security monitoring, intelligence dissemination, and swift crisis response across IDPs, border communities, and other high-risk areas.
- Advanced Surveillance Systems: Modern surveillance systems will be deployed in IDP camps and other high-risk zones to provide real-time monitoring, early threat detection, and enhanced safety for vulnerable populations.
- Comprehensive Management and Maintenance: BDIC will oversee the full lifecycle management of all digital infrastructure, ensuring reliable and sustainable operations, particularly in IDP camps and emergency response centers.
- Digital Skills Empowerment for IDPs: Digital training hubs will be established in IDP camps to provide training in technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation. These hubs aim to equip displaced youth with tools for self-reliance and economic integration.
- Capacity Building for Emergency Responders: Extensive training programs will be conducted for BSEMA staff, security personnel, and other stakeholders to ensure the optimal use of the deployed systems.
Anticipated Benefits
The MoU is poised to deliver transformative benefits to Benue State, including:
- Enhanced Security and Surveillance: Real-time data and intelligence systems will enable proactive threat detection and improved security across the state.
- Improved Emergency Response: Faster decision-making and coordinated systems will save lives and mitigate damage during crises.
- Economic Empowerment for IDPs: Digital skills hubs will provide opportunities for self-reliance, entrepreneurship, and digital jobs for displaced youth.
- Data-Driven Decision-Making: Advanced tools for data collection and analysis will ensure effective resource allocation, strategic planning, and transparency.
- Global Standard Alignment: By aligning with international best practices, this initiative positions Benue State as a model for digital innovation and preparedness.
This partnership reflects BDIC’s commitment to driving technological advancement and sustainable development in Benue State. Together with BSEMA and BSBHS, BDIC is proud to contribute to creating a safer, more resilient, and prosperous Benue for all its citizens.
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