The Federal Government's commitment to promoting digital inclusion received a major boost as the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, commissioned the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) Community IT Centre in Ihugh, Vandeikya Local Government Area of Benue State.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the First Lady described the facility as a strategic investment in human capital development and digital empowerment, aimed at equipping citizens with the skills and opportunities required to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world.

She commended NITDA for its partnership with the Renewed Hope Initiative in expanding access to digital infrastructure and opportunities, particularly in underserved communities. According to her, the IT Centre in Ihugh is the fourth facility established through the collaboration, following similar projects in Bauchi, Kwara, Oyo states, among others.

Senator Tinubu noted that the centres are designed to provide access to digital literacy, innovation and entrepreneurship opportunities, especially for women and young people. She urged residents of the community to utilise the facility effectively and ensure its sustainability for the benefit of future generations.

As part of efforts to support economic empowerment at the grassroots, the First Lady also announced a N100 million grant for 2,000 women petty traders in the area, reaffirming the Renewed Hope Initiative's commitment to improving livelihoods and fostering inclusive development.

In his address, the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, described the IT Centre as a catalyst for transformation that would enable residents to acquire digital skills, access emerging technologies and participate meaningfully in the digital economy.

He explained that the centre would serve as a hub for learning, innovation and enterprise development, providing opportunities for students, entrepreneurs and farmers to leverage technology for productivity and economic growth.

According to him, digital tools can significantly enhance agricultural activities by providing access to data-driven solutions such as weather forecasting, soil analysis and precision farming techniques, helping farmers improve output and profitability.

The NITDA Director General also highlighted the agency's broader interventions in Benue State, including the establishment of a Community ICT Centre in Wannune, nine Digital Learning Centres across the state, and the training of more than 13,300 residents through various digital literacy and skills development programmes.

Governor Hyacinth Alia, who also spoke at the event, described the project as a landmark intervention that would open new opportunities for education, innovation, entrepreneurship and employment. He assured stakeholders of the state's commitment to providing the infrastructure and support necessary to ensure the centre's long-term sustainability.

The commissioning of the Ihugh Community IT Centre underscores ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide, expand access to technology and create pathways for inclusive economic growth and development across Nigeria

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