By 
By Nana Theresa Timothy
Benue State accelerates digital transformation with Cisco Networking Academy partnership
Benue State has taken a decisive leap in its digital transformation journey with the signing of a strategic partnership between the Benue State Government, through the Benue Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC), and the globally renowned Cisco Networking Academy.
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The agreement was formalised at the Middle East & Africa (MEA) Cisco International Systems Annual Conference, held at the Le Royal Méridien Resort in Dubai from January 13 to 15, 2026. The partnership was executed by Gbande-Hembaor Terwase, AFCPN, Group Managing Director/CEO of BDIC and President/CEO of AfDIC—marking a major milestone in the state’s ambition to build a digitally skilled, globally competitive workforce.
Governor Alia’s Digital Vision Gains Global Backing
The partnership reflects the bold digital transformation agenda of Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, who has consistently prioritised digital skills as a catalyst for economic growth, youth empowerment, and public sector reform.
Within the first year of his administration, the Benue State Government launched:
- A programme to train 10,000 youths in digital and technology-enabled skills
- A large-scale digital literacy and e-governance initiative targeting over 40,000 civil servants to modernise public service delivery, enhance efficiency, and strengthen transparency
The collaboration with Cisco now provides international validation for these efforts—turning policy vision into structured, world-class outcomes.
23,000 Youths to Receive Globally Recognised Digital Training
Under the new agreement, Benue State will train 23,000 youths every two years using Cisco’s internationally accredited curricula in:
- Networking
- Cybersecurity
- Digital literacy
- Emerging technologies
Participants will earn globally recognised certifications that significantly boost employability, support remote work readiness, and open doors to international job placements—positioning Benue’s young people for success in the fast-evolving digital economy.
Why Cisco Networking Academy Matters
Cisco Networking Academy is one of the world’s most respected digital skills and workforce development platforms, operating in over 190 countries and having trained tens of millions of learners globally.
Its certifications in networking, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and IT essentials are widely trusted by:
- Multinational corporations
- Governments
- Academic institutions
- Global tech employers
Consistently ranked among the most valuable IT credentials worldwide, Cisco certifications improve career mobility and provide a gateway into the global technology labour market.
Strengthening E-Governance and Public Sector Capacity
Beyond youth empowerment, the partnership significantly strengthens government capacity by enabling continuous digital upskilling of civil servants. It supports Benue State’s transition to:
- E-governance
- Data-driven decision-making
- Digitally enabled service delivery
With access to Cisco’s world-class learning platforms, instructor development programmes, and industry-aligned certifications, Benue is positioning itself as a leading subnational hub for digital human capital development in Nigeria and across Africa.
Benue’s Rising Global Profile in Digital Innovation
The signing of the agreement at a major international technology forum in Dubai underscores Benue State’s growing global credibility in digital infrastructure, skills development, and governance innovation.
It reflects a deliberate strategy by the state government to leverage international technology partnerships to:
- Accelerate inclusive economic growth
- Reduce youth unemployment
- ]Prepare the workforce for the future of work
A New Chapter in Benue’s Digital Economy Journey
With this milestone partnership, Benue State has firmly consolidated its digital transformation agenda—moving from aspiration to scalable, globally competitive execution.
The Cisco Networking Academy partnership showcases the Benue State Government’s strong commitment to fostering a resilient digital economy. Under Governor Alia’s leadership, this initiative strategically positions Benue at the forefront of Nigeria’s and Africa’s digital revolution.
