FG, Plateau govt partner to build digital hub for youths

The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, has expressed the readiness of his ministry to partner with the Plateau State Government to transform the iconic Nigeria Standard building into a state-of-the-art digital hub aimed at creating employment opportunities and empowering young talents across the state.

Dr Tijani who disclosed this during a courtesy visit to Governor Caleb Mutfwang at the New Government House, Rayfield, Jos said the initiative aligns with the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Mutfwang to equip Plateau youths with cutting-edge digital skills that will enhance national productivity and economic growth.

He disclosed that Plateau State has been selected as one of the pilot locations for the deployment of 7,000 new telecom towers across the country, which is an ambitious federal initiative designed to extend connectivity to underserved areas and bolster national security infrastructure.

“Your Excellency, we recognize your efforts. Whatever it takes to make this vision a reality, we will pursue it. We see in Plateau State the key to Nigeria’s success. Think about the creative sectors that have elevated our national profile, many of those talents emerged from Jos. This city is welcoming, hospitable, and brimming with potential,” Dr. Tijani remarked.

He further recalled his longstanding affinity with Plateau, stating: “Your passion has drawn me to this state. Since our meeting in Sweden, we have been working on concrete plans to advance technological innovation in Plateau.state”

Reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to digital expansion, the Minister said, “We are compelled to ensure that the President’s agenda of deepening digital infrastructure becomes a reality nationwide. Imagine the transformation if every corner of Plateau is digitally connected. Smart technology can revolutionize agriculture, healthcare, and security. For a city like Jos, digital connectivity is not optional, it is essential.”

Dr. Tijani also highlighted the pivotal role of fiber-optic networks, satellite technology, and digital skill development in achieving Nigeria’s ambition of becoming a one trillion-dollar digital economy. He unveiled plans to launch a Talent City Project in Jos and promote Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) to provide sustainable career pathways for the youth.

He called for increased enrollment of Plateau youths in the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) Programme, a flagship national initiative aimed at building a robust and globally competitive tech workforce.

Responding, Governor Caleb Mutfwang described the Minister’s visit as a timely and strategic encounter, echoing his administration’s vision of positioning Plateau as a hub for digital innovation.

Referencing the legacy of JD Gomwalk, the founding father of the state, Governor Mutfwang emphasized the importance of safeguarding Plateau’s identity through progressive infrastructure and technological advancement.

“I’m particularly encouraged by your thoughts on linking technology and security,” the Governor stated. “We must address the challenges posed by our unmanned and ungoverned spaces, especially along the northern border, where we’ve witnessed increased trans-Sahelian movement. These trends contribute significantly to our security concerns.

“With the application of modern technology, we can introduce effective surveillance and control measures, alternatives far more efficient than the idea of building brick walls like in some other countries.”

He added, “We appreciate your visit deeply. And as you leave, rest assured that you will not only take strawberries with you, you will take the full warmth and hospitality that Plateau has to offer.”