In a significant move toward digital transformation, the Benue State government has partnered with global technology giant Cisco to train approximately 23,000 young Nigerians in critical digital skills every two years. The partnership, facilitated through the Benue Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC) and Cisco Networking Academy, was formalised during the Middle East and Africa annual conference held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
This ambitious initiative represents a major step in positioning Benue State as a leading digital economy hub in Nigeria, with far-reaching implications for youth employment, technological advancement, and economic development across the region.
Comprehensive Training Program
The training program will utilise Cisco’s internationally recognised certified curricula to equip participants with in-demand skills for the modern digital labour market. The curriculum covers a wide range of critical areas, including computer networking, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, digital marketing, and cloud computing technologies.
According to officials, the goal extends beyond simple skills acquisition. The program aims to align local talent with global technology standards, enabling Benue State youths to compete effectively in international technology markets without requiring geographic relocation. This opens up significant opportunities for remote work and participation in the global digital economy.
Building on Previous Success
This partnership builds on the Benue State government’s earlier achievements in digital literacy. During its first year in office under Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration, the state government successfully trained 10,000 youths in digital skills and rolled out digital literacy and e-governance training for more than 40,000 civil servants. These earlier initiatives aimed to improve efficiency and transparency in public services while laying the groundwork for broader digital transformation.
The expansion to 23,000 trainees every two years represents a substantial scaling up of these efforts, demonstrating the government’s commitment to making digital literacy accessible to a significant portion of the state’s youth population.
Strategic Vision for Digital Economy
The Benue Digital Infrastructure Company, established by the Alia administration, serves as the vehicle for implementing the state’s 21st-century digital economy vision. Under the leadership of Managing Director and CEO Terwase Hembaor-Gbande, BDIC has been tasked with expanding broadband access, establishing ICT hubs, and fostering innovation across key sectors, including education, media, and governance.
The company’s broader mandate includes developing and deploying state-of-the-art digital infrastructure, creating startup ecosystems, and ensuring digital inclusion for underserved communities. The partnership with Cisco represents a crucial component of this comprehensive strategy.
Addressing Youth Unemployment Through Digital Skills
State authorities view digital skills development as a powerful lever for improving youth employability and creating sustainable economic opportunities. By providing globally recognised certifications and practical training, the program aims to transform participants from job seekers into job creators, fostering entrepreneurship and innovation within the state.
The initiative directly addresses one of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges: youth unemployment. By equipping young people with marketable digital skills, Benue State is creating pathways to economic independence and contributing to the broader national development agenda.
Infrastructure and Support Systems
To support this ambitious training program, BDIC has been developing a comprehensive infrastructure, including the BDIC Digital Infrastructure Academy, which serves as a dedicated educational and training centre. The academy offers hands-on training, practical labs, industry certifications, and both online and blended learning options.
The company has also formed strategic partnerships with leading industry experts, academic institutions, and technology companies to ensure that training remains current, relevant, and aligned with industry needs. Additionally, BDIC has established innovation labs and ICT hubs to provide ongoing support for graduates as they transition into employment or entrepreneurship.
Broader Impact
The training program is expected to have ripple effects throughout Benue State’s economy. By creating a skilled workforce capable of participating in the global digital economy, the initiative positions the state as an attractive destination for technology investment and business process outsourcing opportunities.
Furthermore, the program aligns with Nigeria’s broader national digital transformation agenda and complements other federal initiatives aimed at equipping millions of Nigerians with the skills required to thrive in a technology-driven world.
As Benue State implements this partnership with Cisco, the initiative serves as a model for other Nigerian states seeking to leverage digital skills training as a catalyst for economic development and youth empowerment. The success of this program could potentially influence similar initiatives across the country, contributing to Nigeria’s emergence as a significant player in Africa’s digital economy.
With the first cohorts already beginning their training, stakeholders are optimistic that this partnership will deliver transformative results, creating opportunities for thousands of young Nigerians while strengthening the state’s position in the digital age.
