The Benue State Government has launched a strategic capacity-building programme to equip school principals and coordinators with Artificial Intelligence (AI), coding, and digital literacy skills, in a bid to revolutionize education and position the state as a future hub for tech talent.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Benue Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC), was officially flagged off on May 16 by the Managing Director and CEO, Mr. Terwase Gbande. He emphasized that the programme aims to transform the state’s educational ecosystem into a world-class, digitally-driven model.
“This programme is about preparing our education managers for the future,” Gbande said. “Our goal is to build a robust digital foundation so that, within the next decade, Benue can begin to export tech talent to the global market.”
He applauded Governor Hyacinth Alia for being the first leader in Benue’s history to institutionalize Information and Communication Technology (ICT) as a policy priority. According to Gbande, the creation of the Ministry of ICT and Digital Economy, the State Digital Services Management and Enforcement Agency, and the Benue Digital Infrastructure Company reflects the administration’s deliberate commitment to digital transformation.
The Commissioner for Education and Knowledge Management, Dr. Fredrick Ikyaan, commended the initiative, underscoring the need to equip Benue learners with ICT competencies essential for national development in a fast-paced, tech-driven world.
“Our children must not be left behind in this digital revolution,” Dr. Ikyaan said. “We’re committed to ensuring they acquire the necessary digital skills to thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.”
Mr. Kwaghgba Amande, Commissioner for Communication and Digital Economy, announced that the state government plans to establish a Tech Skills Institution at the Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi. The institution will serve as a center for advanced ICT training, with a strong focus on Artificial Intelligence.
“AI is no longer futuristic—it is the present,” Amande noted. “Our students must be prepared to operate, innovate, and lead in this space. Collaboration across ministries and agencies will be critical in making this vision a reality.”
School principals from across the state’s three senatorial zones—Mallam Shuaibu Danjuma (Government Model School, Katsina-Ala – Zone A), Mr. Robert Apir (Government Model School, Makurdi – Zone B), and Mr. Ode Omale (Wesley High School, Otukpo – Zone C)—commended the initiative and pledged to cascade the training to their respective schools. They also appealed to the government to complement the programme with adequate digital infrastructure.
The training is part of a broader effort by the Benue State Government to embed digital skills in the education sector and empower both teachers and students to navigate and thrive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.