Benue govt seals deal to train 23,000 youths in digital skills

The Benue State Government has signed a digital skills training partnership with the Cisco Networking Academy to train and certify 23,000 youths across the state, as part of efforts to accelerate digital transformation and youth empowerment.

The agreement was executed through the Benue Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC) at the Middle East and Africa (MEA) Cisco International Systems Annual Partners Conference held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The partnership was formalised by the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of BDIC, as well as President/CEO of AfDIC, Gbande-Hembaor Terwase, AFCPN, and is expected to significantly strengthen Benue State’s digital human capital development.

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Under the agreement, 23,000 Benue youths will be trained on a biannual basis using Cisco’s globally accredited curricula in areas such as networking, cybersecurity, digital literacy, and other emerging technologies.

Participants will also receive internationally recognised certifications designed to improve employability, support remote work opportunities, and enhance access to the global labour market.

The initiative aligns with the digital transformation agenda of Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, who has prioritised digital skills development as a tool for economic growth, job creation, and public sector reform.

Within the first year of the administration, the state government launched programmes aimed at training 10,000 youths in digital and technology-driven skills, alongside digital literacy and e-governance training for over 40,000 civil servants.

Officials said the partnership with Cisco Networking Academy provides global validation for Benue State’s investments in digital skills, offering a standardised and internationally recognised framework that aligns local training with global industry demands.

Beyond youth training, the collaboration is also expected to enhance the digital capacity of the state’s civil service by supporting continuous upskilling, accelerating the adoption of e-governance, and improving data-driven service delivery.

Cisco Networking Academy operates in over 190 countries and is regarded as one of the world’s leading digital skills and workforce development platforms, with certifications widely recognised by employers, governments, and academic institutions.

The signing of the agreement in Dubai highlights Benue State’s growing international engagement and its strategy of leveraging global technology partnerships to reduce unemployment, drive inclusive growth, and prepare its workforce for the future of work.