Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, on Wednesday commissioned a Community Information Technology (IT) Centre established by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) in Ihugh, Vandeikya Local Government Area of Benue State, as part of ongoing efforts to deepen digital inclusion, expand access to technology, and promote economic empowerment across the country.
The commissioning marks another significant step in the drive to bridge the digital divide and ensure that more Nigerians, particularly those in rural and underserved communities, have access to the opportunities created by the digital economy.
Furthermore, the initiative reflects the growing commitment of the Federal Government to leveraging technology as a tool for education, innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development.
According to stakeholders, the facility is expected to provide residents with access to digital resources, training opportunities, and technological tools that can enhance learning, skills acquisition, and economic participation.
Advancing Digital Inclusion
Speaking on the importance of the project, Senator Oluremi Tinubu emphasized that digital inclusion remains essential for national development in an increasingly technology-driven world.
She noted that access to digital tools and knowledge empowers individuals to participate meaningfully in modern economic activities while opening doors to new opportunities in education, business, and innovation.
Furthermore, expanding access to technology helps reduce inequalities by ensuring that people in rural communities can benefit from the same opportunities available in urban centres.
The First Lady stressed that every Nigerian should have the opportunity to acquire digital skills necessary for success in the twenty-first-century economy.
Empowering Communities Through Technology
The Community IT Centre is expected to serve as a hub for learning, innovation, and capacity building within the local community.
Residents, particularly young people, students, women, and aspiring entrepreneurs, will be able to access digital training programmes and educational resources designed to improve their skills and competitiveness.
Furthermore, technology centres such as this play an important role in fostering creativity, encouraging innovation, and supporting entrepreneurship.
By providing access to modern digital tools, the facility can help individuals explore opportunities in areas such as software development, digital marketing, online business, content creation, and other technology-driven sectors.
Supporting Economic Growth and Job Creation
The First Lady noted that digital skills have become increasingly important in today’s economy, where technology continues to influence virtually every sector.
Therefore, investments in digital infrastructure and capacity building contribute directly to economic growth, job creation, and workforce development.
Furthermore, empowering citizens with digital competencies helps prepare them for emerging opportunities within Nigeria’s rapidly expanding digital economy.
As more Nigerians gain access to technology and digital education, communities become better positioned to attract investment, support innovation, and create sustainable sources of income.
NITDA’s Role in Digital Transformation
The establishment of the centre highlights NITDA’s ongoing efforts to accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda through strategic interventions and community-focused initiatives.
The agency has continued to implement programmes aimed at promoting digital literacy, strengthening technological infrastructure, and expanding access to digital opportunities across the country.
Furthermore, NITDA recognizes that sustainable digital development requires investments that reach beyond major cities and extend into rural communities.
The Community IT Centre therefore represents part of a broader strategy to ensure that technology-driven development benefits all Nigerians.
Investing in the Future
Senator Tinubu emphasized that investments in technology and education are ultimately investments in people and the future of the nation.
She noted that empowering citizens with digital knowledge and skills creates pathways to self-reliance, innovation, and long-term prosperity.
Furthermore, young people equipped with digital competencies are better prepared to contribute to national development and compete successfully in a global economy.
Such investments strengthen human capital while supporting broader social and economic progress.
Building an Inclusive Digital Economy
The commissioning of the Community IT Centre demonstrates the Federal Government’s commitment to creating a more inclusive digital ecosystem where opportunities are accessible to all citizens regardless of location.
Furthermore, the initiative aligns with national objectives aimed at promoting innovation, expanding digital literacy, and fostering economic empowerment through technology.
The First Lady concluded that digital inclusion remains a powerful catalyst for development and transformation. Therefore, she commended NITDA for establishing the facility and expressed confidence that the centre would empower residents of Ihugh and surrounding communities with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities needed to thrive in the digital age while contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic growth and technological advancement.
