The Federal Government’s push for nationwide digital inclusion received a major boost as Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, commissioned a National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) Community IT Centre in Ihugh, Vandeikya Local Government Area of Benue State.
Describing the facility as a strategic investment in human capital, the First Lady said the centre would equip citizens with critical digital skills needed to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world.
Senator Tinubu commended NITDA for its partnership with the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), noting that the Ihugh facility is the fourth Community IT Centre established under the collaboration.
Similar centres have already been commissioned in Bauchi, Kwara, and Oyo states as part of efforts to expand digital infrastructure to underserved communities.
She explained that the centres are designed to promote digital literacy, innovation, and entrepreneurship, particularly among women and young people.
The First Lady urged residents of the host community to take ownership of the facility and ensure its sustainability for future generations.
As part of efforts to strengthen grassroots economic empowerment, Senator Tinubu also announced a N100 million grant for 2,000 women petty traders in Benue State.
She said the intervention aligns with the Renewed Hope Initiative’s mission of improving livelihoods and fostering inclusive economic growth.
Speaking at the event, NITDA Director-General Kashifu Inuwa described the centre as a transformative hub that will provide opportunities for learning, innovation, and enterprise.
He noted that students, entrepreneurs, and farmers would benefit from access to digital tools and skills that can enhance productivity and create new economic opportunities.
Inuwa highlighted the role of technology in modern agriculture, explaining that farmers can leverage digital solutions such as weather forecasting and precision farming to improve yields and make informed decisions.
He also disclosed that NITDA’s presence in Benue includes another Community ICT Centre in Wannune and nine Digital Learning Centres spread across the state.
According to him, more than 13,300 residents of Benue have already benefited from the agency’s digital skills development programmes.
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, welcomed the project, describing it as a landmark intervention that will create new opportunities for education, employment, and innovation.
He assured stakeholders of the state government’s commitment to providing the necessary support and infrastructure to ensure the centre serves as a catalyst for sustainable development in the region.
