Digital Inclusion: Benue Launches Stakeholders’ Summit

Benue State has launched its inaugural Telecommunication Stakeholders’ Summit, focusing on fibre network investment, right-of-way processing and infrastructure management to promote digital inclusivity.

A communiqué signed by Engr. Teryima Akaade, chief technology officer of Benue Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC), after the summit titled; “Building a Connected Benue: Driving Digital Broadband Investment, Policy Coordination, and Digital Inclusion,” indicated that the move is to connect communities with the opportunities of the 21st century.

The communique quoted participants as acknowledging the challenges of broadband deployment, right of way processing, and infrastructure protection which require multi-sector collaboration, investment partnerships, and harmonized policy frameworks to unlock Benue’s full digital potential and create digital opportunities for every citizen.

The Benue Digital Infrastructure Company is the State-designated Special Purpose Vehicle, committed to providing cutting-edge, reliable digital infrastructure that supports innovation, enhances service delivery, and empowers every citizen of Benue State and beyond.

“Today marks a defining moment in our collective journey to build a connected Benue. Through this summit, we are aligning policy, investment, and regulation to accelerate broadband access, strengthen digital infrastructure, and create opportunities for every Benue citizen.

This summit brings together key players, government agencies, telecom operators, investors, and development partners  to forge a shared framework for progress. It is believed that no single actor can achieve digital transformation alone.

“Sustainable broadband expansion requires collaboration, investment partnerships, and policy harmonization, especially around Right of Way, infrastructure protection, and shared deployment.”

It rolled out the vision of the BDIC to transform Benue into Nigeria’s leading digital infrastructure provider, recognised for excellence in service delivery, technological innovation, and contribution to the digital economy.

The communique also quoted BDIC as calling on all stakeholders to deepen cooperation, prioritize digital infrastructure development, and collectively work towards transforming Benue into a leading digital hub that connects communities with the opportunities of the 21st century.

It expressed appreciation to Governor Hyacinth Alia, the minister of communications, innovation and digital economy, members of the State Executive Council, representatives of the Nigerian Communications Commission, and all other participants for their invaluable contributions to the success of the summit.