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Benue’s Digital Vision Recognized at National Level
The Benue Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC) PLC has emerged as the “Best State ICT Agency” in the 2025 Nigeria GovTech Public Service Awards. Organized by the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR) in Abuja, the award recognizes outstanding achievements by public institutions and private sector partners advancing governance through technology.
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Other top winners included the Kaduna State Development and Property Company (KSDPC), which won the award for “Best State MDA in the Innovative Use of Technology”, and PalmPay, named “Digital Governance Company of the Year.”
Several notable personalities were also recognized for their contributions to digital transformation in Nigeria’s public sector. Among them were Charles Anosike, Director-General of NiMet, who received a Distinguished GovTech Trailblazer Award, Abubakar Rabiu Abubakar, Managing Director of KSDPC, and Dr. Adagba, Executive Chairman of the Benue State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), who was honored for introducing computer-based testing in teacher recruitment.
BDIC: Driving Governor Alia’s Vision for a Digital Benue
In his reaction to the award, Terwase Gbande-Hembaor, Managing Director/CEO of BDIC PLC, described the recognition as encouraging.
“This award is a testimony to the leadership and commitment of Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia to the technological advancement of Benue State.”
According to Gbande-Hembaor, Governor Alia’s administration has anchored its ICT policy on a bold vision of “Digital Benue.” A strategy aimed at transforming the state into a tech-enabled, innovation-driven economy.
He explained that the BDIC’s mandate includes strengthening digital infrastructure, and implementing e-governance systems. It also includes promoting widespread digital literacy to ensure inclusivity, efficiency, and job creation.
Key Pillars of the Benue State ICT Vision
1. Expanding Digital Infrastructure
Benue State, through BDIC, is expanding fiber optic connectivity to key institutions such as government offices, schools, and hospitals.
A central component of this initiative is the establishment of the Benue Digital Infrastructure Company to oversee the transition from paper-based systems to a modern, integrated digital ecosystem.
The government is also developing a unified digital policy framework to standardize ICT investments, cybersecurity protocols, and interoperability across MDAs.
2. Promoting E-Governance
Under the e-governance framework, Benue State is digitalizing government activities, including executive council meetings, legislative sessions, and inter-departmental communications.
This digital transformation aims to enhance transparency, reduce bureaucracy, and improve citizen-centric service delivery through smart governance tools.
3. Building Digital Skills and Creating Jobs
Governor Alia’s administration has launched several youth-focused digital programs designed to equip young people with ICT, coding, and creative tech skills.
Initiatives such as the Benue Fashion and ICT Hub are already providing a platform for young innovators, freelancers, and entrepreneurs to thrive. Partnerships with educational institutions like RAMETI Schools further reinforce digital literacy and innovation culture across the state.
4. Stimulating Economic Growth and Innovation
The state’s ICT vision also emphasizes the promotion of a robust digital economy by supporting local startups, adopting technology-driven revenue systems, and attracting both local and foreign investments.
Benue State aims to position itself as a regional hub for digital manufacturing, education innovation, and tech entrepreneurship.
Recognizing Leadership and Innovation in Governance
The 2025 GovTech Awards celebrated excellence in the public and private sectors for driving Nigeria’s digital governance and innovation agenda.
Benue State’s recognition underscores the tangible progress being made under Governor Alia’s administration to make technology a catalyst for inclusive development, innovation, and service delivery.
With the BDIC at the forefront, Benue is setting the pace for other states by showing that strong leadership, strategic planning, and innovation can transform governance and empower citizens in the digital age.
