Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia is pushing forward a bold digital transformation agenda – Smart Benue – aimed at revitalising the state’s economy through technology-led initiatives across key sectors, including agriculture, healthcare, education, and public safety.
Governor Alia, who took office in May 2023, recently led a delegation to China to secure critical partnerships that will position Benue as a central hub for Nigeria’s digital economy.
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The delegation’s visit included strategic meetings with tech giant Huawei Technologies and participation in the 136th China Import & Export Fair, underscoring Benue’s readiness to integrate transformative digital solutions.
A major highlight of the trip was Alia’s agreement with Huawei, paving the way for a state-of-the-art ICT Academy at Benue State University in Makurdi.
Expressing optimism, Alia remarked on social media, “This collaboration with Huawei will bring digital growth and opportunities to our people, setting Benue as a leader in Nigeria’s digital economy.”
Accompanying him on this visit were high-level officials from Benue’s digital and educational sectors, who aim to expand educational resources, tech infrastructure, and local digital expertise.
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In October, Alia also formalised a partnership with EVNT Technologies, a leading IT solutions provider from Saudi Arabia, at the GITEX Global Summit in Dubai. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with EVNT Technologies focuses on strengthening digital infrastructure in Benue through initiatives by the Benue Digital Infrastructure Company PLC (BDIC).
“This partnership is about creating opportunities and laying the groundwork for sustained economic growth,” Alia affirmed at the event, calling it a significant step toward making Benue a model for digital transformation in Nigeria.
EVNT Technologies Chairman Hamad Al Saleh expressed enthusiasm for the project, pledging to support Benue’s aspirations to become a model for digital transformation within and beyond Nigeria. This partnership, expected to begin implementation within 90 days, will provide skills training, capacity building, digital application development, and strategic digital policy formulation.
To drive the ‘Smart Benue’ agenda effectively, Alia recently approved the recruitment of a technical team under the Benue State Digital Infrastructure Services Management Enforcement Agency (BENDISMEA).
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The initiative, expected to generate 253 new jobs, aims to empower youth, enhance digital literacy, and build robust technological access across Benue.
Governor Alia has directed the immediate release of salaries for these new roles to facilitate a smooth and efficient recruitment process, showcasing his commitment to making Benue a beacon of technological advancement and economic opportunity.
