Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
Nigeria’s drive for digital inclusion received a significant boost as the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, commissioned the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) Community ICT Centre in Ihugh, Vandeikya Local Government Area of Benue State.
Speaking at the inauguration, the First Lady described the facility as a strategic investment in human capital development and digital empowerment, designed to equip citizens with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world.
She commended NITDA’s partnership with the Renewed Hope Initiative in expanding access to digital infrastructure, noting that the Ihugh centre is the fourth facility delivered through the collaboration, following similar projects in Bauchi, Kwara and Oyo states.
According to Senator Tinubu, the centres are intended to promote digital literacy, innovation, and entrepreneurship, particularly among women and young people. She urged members of the community to take ownership of the facility and ensure its sustainability for future generations.
In a further boost to grassroots economic empowerment, the First Lady announced a N100 million grant for 2,000 women petty traders in the area, reaffirming the Renewed Hope Initiative’s commitment to improving livelihoods and promoting inclusive development.
Earlier, NITDA Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa, described the ICT centre as a catalyst for transformation that would enable residents to acquire digital skills, access emerging technologies, and participate meaningfully in the digital economy.
He said the facility would serve as a hub for learning, innovation, and enterprise development, creating opportunities for students, entrepreneurs, and farmers to leverage technology for productivity and economic growth.
Inuwa noted that digital tools can significantly improve agricultural productivity through access to weather forecasting, soil analysis, and precision farming solutions, helping farmers increase output and profitability.
The NITDA chief also highlighted the agency’s broader interventions in Benue State, including the establishment of a Community ICT Centre in Wannune, nine Digital Learning Centres across the state, and the training of over 13,300 residents through various digital literacy and skills development programmes.
Also speaking, Governor Hyacinth Alia described the project as a landmark intervention that would unlock opportunities in education, innovation, entrepreneurship, and employment. He assured stakeholders of the state’s commitment to providing the support and infrastructure needed to sustain the facility.
The commissioning of the Ihugh Community ICT Centre further underscores the Federal Government’s efforts to bridge the digital divide, expand access to technology, and create pathways for inclusive economic growth across Nigeria.
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