The Federal Government has announced plans to establish a Technology Innovation Hub in Taraba State as part of efforts to equip young Nigerians with digital and technological skills.

The Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, disclosed this on Monday when he received a delegation of the Taraba State Youth Development Agency (TSYDA), led by its Chairman, Prince Gara Nongha, at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.

Olawande said the proposed innovation hub was being considered by the administration of President Bola Tinubu to complement the efforts of the Taraba State Government under Governor Agbu Kefas in preparing young people for a productive future.

According to the minister, the hub would create opportunities for young Nigerians to acquire relevant digital and technological skills and participate meaningfully in the emerging digital economy.

“I wish to inform you that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is considering plans to establish a Technology Innovation Hub in Taraba State.

“This is to complement the efforts of Governor Agbu Kefas towards preparing young people for a productive future,” Olawande said.

He added that the proposed facility would focus on providing young people with skills needed to thrive in the digital economy.

The minister also urged youths in Taraba State to support President Tinubu’s re-election bid, saying continued support would enable the administration to achieve its objectives for young Nigerians, particularly in the area of digital development.

Earlier, the Chairman of TSYDA, Prince Gara Nongha, said the proposed hub would provide a platform for young Tarabans to develop innovative ideas, establish businesses and explore emerging technologies.

Nongha called for stronger collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Youth Development and the Taraba State Government to expand empowerment and skills-development opportunities for youths across the state.

He said strategic partnerships in skills development, technology, innovation and entrepreneurship would help create jobs and provide sustainable opportunities for young people.

“This is a significant commitment to the young people of Taraba State. The proposed hub will provide opportunities for our youths to acquire relevant digital and technological skills, nurture innovative ideas, develop businesses and participate meaningfully in the emerging digital economy,” Nongha said.

The TSYDA chairman commended Olawande for his commitment to youth development and the Federal Government’s willingness to collaborate with the state agency.

He said the agency looked forward to translating the understanding reached with the ministry into practical programmes capable of delivering direct and lasting benefits to young people across Taraba State.

Nongha also appreciated the minister for his support for youth development initiatives in the state, particularly his recent visit to Taraba, where he attended the Kefas Youth Empowerment Programme.

He noted that the minister’s visit also coincided with the unveiling of the Taraba State Youth Development Roadmap 2026–2031 and the Long-Term Taraba Youth Agenda 2050.