By Juliet Umeh

To tackle youth unemployment and equip young people for the digital economy, the Benue State Government has officially launched the 23,000 Benue Youth Free Digital Skills Training Programme.

The initiative, driven by the Benue Digital Infrastructure Company, BDIC, in partnership with Cisco Networking Academy and AfDIC, aims to provide globally relevant digital skills to youths across the state.

The flag-off ceremony underscored the state’s commitment to building a digitally skilled workforce and positioning Benue as a competitive player in the global digital economy. Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, represented by Hon. Kwaghgba Amande, Commissioner for ICT and Digital Economy, reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to youth empowerment and digital transformation.

“This opportunity is one we have long worked towards. Expanding access to digital knowledge and technology has remained a top priority. We are determined to ensure that Benue youths are not left behind in the global digital revolution,” the Commissioner said. He added that a parallel training programme for 40,000 civil servants is underway, with 10,000 already trained and the initiative extended to local government levels.

BDIC GMD/CEO Hon. Gbande Hembaor Terwase welcomed participants, highlighting that Cisco Networking Academy, operating in over 130 countries, provides certificates recognized globally, opening doors to international opportunities. He urged participants to stay committed throughout the programme and introduced the “Talent Bank” initiative, designed to connect skilled youths with digital employment opportunities. For those without adequate workspaces, BDIC will provide facilities, internet access, and tools to enable effective work.

BDIC has strengthened Benue’s digital ecosystem by connecting over 16 ministries and agencies with fibre networks, partnering with ITS to produce BDIC-branded computers, enabling civil servants to acquire devices through flexible payment plans, and launching the Benue Educated Artisans Marketplace to digitally link residents with verified local artisans.

Representing Cisco Networking Academy, Mr. Imo Akpan praised the state for prioritizing digital skills development, noting that technology shapes every aspect of life and global certificates will position Benue youths for international opportunities.

Participants described the programme as life-changing, enhancing employability and opening global career paths. The official launch of the 23,000 Youth Free Digital Skills Programme demonstrates Benue State’s strategic approach to closing the skills gap and building a future-ready generation prepared to thrive in the digital economy.

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