Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia
By TYAV SAM TYAV, Makurdi –
Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia has said the training of 40,000 civil servants at the state and local government levels was in pursuit of digital transformation in Benue State.
In his keynote address during the formal inauguration and official launch of the Electronic Document Management System (EDMS); the Benue State Geographic Information Systems (BENGIS) Portal; and the Benue Youth Startup and Innovation Support Portal on Monday the governor said the event was a defining moment in our collective pursuit of digital transformation in Benue State.
He said that “we are not merely unveiling technological platforms. We are empowering our people, enhancing transparency, and embracing the limitless possibilities of a digitally driven economy. These platforms will enhance service delivery, streamline administrative processes, and create opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship.
“This comprehensive capacity-building exercise will ensure that our workforce is equipped with the digital skills required to efficiently operate within the new electronic management system. Through this training, we are fostering a future-ready civil service that can adapt to the demands of a rapidly evolving world.”
The governor, who appreciated the Digital Bridge Institute for their partnership in providing world-class digital capacity-building programmes said the training initiative was a commitment to strengthening the public sector, making governance more accessible and effective for the people of Benue State.
According to the him, “the Electronic Document Management System (EDMS) will revolutionize the way government institutions manage records and official correspondences. With this platform, we will ensure faster decision-making, improved transparency, and enhanced productivity; the BENGIS Portal will facilitate seamless access to land management services, providing a robust digital interface for property registration, title verification, and other land-related matters. This portal is designed to reduce bureaucratic delays and enhance public access to essential services; the Benue Youth Startup and Innovation Support Portal is a deliberate step to nurture our youths’ entrepreneurial spirit. It will offer resources, mentorship opportunities, and financial support to our young innovators and startups, contributing to job creation and economic growth. “
Alia admitted that such achievements would not have been possible without the commitment and collaboration of various partners and appreciated the Benue State Digital Infrastructure Company for leading the development of these digital platforms,
He further disclosed that his administration’s drive towards a functional digital infrastructure long precedes the event, recalling that barely few months after they came on board, they went into partnership with Microsoft Corporation, to train at least ten thousand Benue youths on the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
Governor Alia said the launch of the Benue fashion and ICT Hub in the state last year by Vice President Kashim Shetima, was also a demonstration to the long-standing determination by the government to build and sustain a digital infrastructure full of numerous benefits.
