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In an exclusive interview with Nana Theresa Timothy of ITEdgeNews.Africa, Yoila Yusuf, the Acting Director of Talent Management at Plateau State ICT Development Agency (PICTDA), shared insights into the agency’s ongoing efforts to foster ICT development. He shares PICTDA’s vision to drive innovation, and create an enabling environment for technology-driven growth in Plateau State. Representing the Director-General at HackJos2025, Yusuf elaborated on the agency’s mandate, challenges, and future of ICT in the region.
Driving ICT Development in Plateau State
PICTDA, Yusuf explained, is dedicated to advancing information and communication technology across Plateau State. The agency’s role extends beyond policy advocacy to creating an enabling environment where technology-driven solutions can thrive.
“From the name, it’s clear we’re focused on development,” he said.
“Our mandate is to oversee ICT growth and innovation within the state. Any innovation related to ICT finds a home here at Plateau State, and we provide the frameworks and policies that guide the sector.”
He emphasized that the agency serves as a bridge between government policy and practical implementation. It ensures that ICT initiatives align with the broader goals of economic growth and technological advancement.
Policy Formulation and Legislative Support
A central part of Plateau State’s mission, Yusuf said, is to facilitate policy and legislative frameworks that support ICT innovation. He pointed to ongoing efforts surrounding the processing of a new ICT Act. The new legal framework aims to provide a structured legal and operational foundation for technology startups and innovators.
“As an agency, we’re deeply involved in policy formulation and the frameworks that guide the sector,” he explained.
“For instance, we’ve been actively working on processing the ICT Act. It’s part of our core responsibilities, and once it passes through the House of Assembly, it will officially come into effect, creating clear guidelines for ICT development across the state.”
The new act, Yusuf noted, is designed to streamline ICT regulations and provide guidance for startups and innovators. This law will help them navigate legal and operational requirements efficiently.
Bridging the Knowledge Gap
One challenge facing ICT startups in Plateau, he said, is meeting the criteria for labeling and compliance under regulatory frameworks. Many businesses are unaware of the necessary steps to align with government standards, which can slow innovation and limit access to resources.
“Most innovators struggle to meet the criteria for labeling,” Yusuf said. “This is not necessarily due to a lack of capability but often because they are unaware of the requirements. It’s where our role becomes critical, educating, creating awareness, and advocating for compliance within the tech community.”
Plateau State has been proactive in addressing this gap by organizing workshops, awareness campaigns, and engagement sessions with ICT startups and tech entrepreneurs across the state. These initiatives aim to ensure that innovators understand the policies affecting their operations and are prepared to meet regulatory standards.
Implementation on the Horizon
When asked about the timeline for the implementation of key ICT policies and programs, Yusuf expressed optimism. He highlighted the active involvement of the state government and the House of Assembly in fast-tracking legislation and policy enforcement.
“As soon as the House of Assembly completes their process, the act will come into effect,” he said. “With the governor’s commitment and ongoing collaboration with legislative members, we expect tangible progress in the next few months. It’s a promising time for ICT development in Plateau.”
This legislative backing, he noted, is essential to providing stability and clarity for innovators, ensuring that technology-driven initiatives are supported by both law and policy.
Governor’s Support and Strategic Partnerships
Yusuf also highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships in accelerating ICT growth. Recently, the governor signed a memorandum of understanding with an organization set to bring high-speed fiber infrastructure to the state, demonstrating a strong commitment to creating a robust ICT ecosystem.
“The governor made a promise during the signing of the MoU to support the rollout of fiber infrastructure,” he said. “Members of the House of Assembly were present and pledged their support. This project will significantly enhance connectivity and provide the foundation for innovation and technology development across Plateau State.”
High-speed internet, he explained, is crucial for startups, businesses, and educational institutions, as it enables digital services, innovation, and access to broader markets.
Creating an Enabling Environment for Innovation
At its core, Plateau State is focused on building an enabling environment where ICT businesses can thrive. This involves not only policy support and infrastructure development but also capacity building, mentorship, and advocacy.
“Our role is to ensure that innovators and ICT businesses have the resources and knowledge they need to succeed, We create awareness, engage with startups, and advocate for compliance so that businesses can operate effectively and sustainably,” Yusuf said.
By combining policy guidance with practical support, Plateau State aims to foster a culture of innovation and encourage entrepreneurs to embrace technology as a driver of economic growth in Plateau State.
Future of ICT in Plateau State
Looking forward, Yusuf expressed confidence in the future of ICT in Plateau State, highlighting the agency’s commitment to continued engagement with innovators, government partners, and the wider technology ecosystem.
“With the governor’s support, legislative backing, and ongoing advocacy efforts, we are confident that the ICT sector in Plateau will experience rapid growth,” he said. “Our goal is to ensure that innovation is not just a buzzword but a sustainable driver of economic development and social impact.”
As Plateau State continues to invest in its ICT infrastructure and policy frameworks, Plateau State stands at the forefront, guiding startups, fostering talent, and ensuring that the region’s technology sector is ready to compete on a national and global scale.
