Nigeria’s Benue State Champions Digital Transformation

Nigeria

In a decisive step towards digital inclusivity and economic empowerment, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nigeria’s Benue State Digital Infrastructure Company PLC (BDIC), Gbande Hembaor Terwase, played a pivotal role yesterday at the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) Sub-National Engagement and IT Ecosystem Development Program in the States capital city of Makurdi.

The event, collaboratively hosted with the Benue State Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, centered on the theme, “Creating Opportunities, Breaking Boundaries Towards Digitization and Entrepreneurial Evolution.” It underscored Benue State’s rising prominence as a beacon of digital innovation and inclusive technological progress in Nigeria.

The program brought together key stakeholders from government, private sector, academia, and civil society to engage on strategies for advancing digital transformation within the state and beyond. Gbande Hembaor Terwase, serving as a distinguished panelist and delivering the formal vote of thanks, emphasized the critical nature of partnerships, strategic investments, and policy alignment in shaping the future digital landscape of Benue State.

“Today’s gathering is more than a conference; it is a milestone in our collective journey toward building a digitally empowered society where every citizen has the opportunity to succeed,” Terwase remarked. “We are creating opportunities and breaking boundaries that have historically limited access to digital resources and skills.”

Central to the event’s discussions was the acknowledgment of the National Information Technology Development Agency’s steadfast commitment to the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS). NITDA continues to serve as a critical catalyst for Nigeria’s aspirations to transform into a knowledge-based digital economy. Their focus on sub-national engagement through programs like this one is designed to localize and accelerate digital transformation efforts.

Terwase lauded NITDA’s support for domestication of the National Digital Literacy Framework in Benue State, which ambitiously targets achieving at least 70% digital literacy by 2027. He highlighted flagship initiatives under this framework, including the groundbreaking “One Student, One Skill, One Computer” program, which aims to equip young learners with essential digital competencies and access to technological tools. “This initiative is an unprecedented stride towards bridging the digital divide and ensuring equitable digital access for all Benue citizens,” he noted.

Integral to the success of these digital initiatives is the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormen Alia, Executive Governor of Benue State. Terwase expressed sincere appreciation for Governor Alia’s consistent dedication to fostering an enabling environment for digital innovation and entrepreneurship. The governor’s foresight and policy support have paved the way for thriving collaborations between state government entities, development agencies, and private sector stakeholders.

“Governor Alia’s vision transcends mere policy formulation; it embodies the spirit of leadership that has made Benue a fertile ground for digital transformation,” Terwase said. “His commitment to inclusive growth ensures that no one is left behind in our digital revolution.”

Under Terwase’s leadership, BDIC is actively pursuing strategic investments and cross-sector partnerships designed to catalyze digital inclusion across Benue State. The company’s mission extends beyond providing infrastructure – it is about delivering scalable innovation and digital services that empower citizens, create meaningful jobs, and stimulate sustainable economic expansion.

Terwase outlined BDIC’s alignment with both federal and state government frameworks, allowing for the seamless deployment of broadband infrastructure, digital literacy programs, and entrepreneurial support services. Among the critical focus areas are enhancing rural connectivity, supporting start-ups, and fostering a data-driven ecosystem that can sustain continuous growth.

“As the backbone of Benue’s digital ecosystem, BDIC is committed to forging innovative pathways that complement government efforts and mobilize private investment,” he explained. “Our work is founded on the principle that digital infrastructure is not just a utility but a powerful enabler for education, commerce, healthcare, and governance.”

The NITDA Sub-National Engagement program represents a significant milestone in Benue State’s roadmap for digital empowerment. Terwase emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration among all stakeholders to achieve the ambitious goals set out in NDEPS and the National Digital Literacy Framework.

He stated, “Our collective resolve must focus on laying down the foundation of a resilient digital economy where every citizen—regardless of age, location, or socioeconomic status—has the opportunity to thrive in the new digital era. This requires sustained investment in digital skills, infrastructure, and innovation.”

The program also spotlighted success stories from various sectors, including education, agriculture, and small and medium enterprises, illustrating how digital tools and frameworks are transforming lives and livelihoods across Benue State.

The IT Ecosystem Development Program underscored the critical role of youth empowerment in the digital transformation agenda. With a growing population of young Nigerians, Benue State’s future hinges on equipping its youth with relevant skills and opportunities to innovate and compete in the global digital economy.

BDIC, under Terwase’s guidance, is actively supporting initiatives that nurture digital entrepreneurship and start-up ecosystems. These efforts encompass skill acquisition centers, incubators, and access to digital marketplaces, enabling young entrepreneurs to convert ideas into impactful digital solutions.

“Empowering our youth with digital skills is an investment in the sustainability of our digital economy,” Terwase asserted. “Digital literacy is no longer a luxury—it is a necessity for creating jobs and fostering economic resilience.”

As Benue State continues to climb the ladder of digital transformation, the synergies between government leadership, regulatory agencies like NITDA, and strategic operators such as BDIC will remain crucial. Terwase reiterated the company’s dedication to driving innovation and inclusivity as the state navigates evolving technological challenges and opportunities.

“We are committed to not just keeping pace with global digital trends but becoming leaders in regional digital transformation,” he concluded. “The journey ahead demands vision, collaboration, and unwavering commitment, and BDIC stands ready to play its part.”

The NITDA Sub-National Engagement and IT Ecosystem Development Program in Benue State marks more than just a policy discussion; it is a testament to what can be achieved when visionary leadership, strategic collaboration, and community commitment converge. With Gbande Hembaor Terwase and BDIC at the helm of critical digital infrastructure development, and with NITDA’s robust support and Governor Alia’s inspiring leadership, Benue State is firmly on the path to becoming a digital powerhouse—building a smarter, more inclusive, and economically vibrant future for all its citizens.