Insurgency wreaked havoc on Borno’s digital infrastructure — BICTDA

The Borno State Information and Communication Technology Development Agency (BICTDA) has revealed the devastating impact of over a decade of Boko Haram insurgency on the state’s digital infrastructure, outlining a comprehensive plan for recovery.

Speaking during the agency’s one-year anniversary in Maiduguri on Monday, BICTDA Executive Secretary, Engr. Kabir Wanori, highlighted the severe digital shortfalls caused by the conflict, including inadequate infrastructure, limited access to digital services, and a critical shortage of skilled manpower.

He explained that BICTDA is now actively working to bridge the digital divide, launching a multi-faceted initiative to revitalise the state’s digital landscape.

This initiative includes establishing digital literacy centres, expanding high-speed internet infrastructure, and providing resources to empower startups and small businesses in the state.

The agency is also fostering digital skills through collaborations, training students and government staff.

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To date, BICTDA has established 10 operational digital centres across the three senatorial districts, graduating over 2,000 students and issuing 1,170 certificates.

Partnerships are being forged to extend digital technology benefits to all local government areas.

Scholarship support is provided to encourage young innovators, and the agency has implemented a monitoring and evaluation system, coupled with upgrades to its website and email infrastructure.

“We are committed to ensuring Borno is digitally empowered to drive economic growth, improve governance, and enhance the quality of life for our citizens. The digital economy is the future, and we cannot afford to be left behind.

“Established 22 digital literacy centers, with 14 fully equipped and 8 nearing completion, benefiting nearly 4,000 people.

“Partnered with Google, Cisco, and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to integrate globally recognized digital literacy curricula.

“Conducted statewide campaigns on cybersecurity and cybercrime, reducing vulnerability to scams and data breaches.

“Developed the Borno Rescue Management System (BRMS) app, rescuing over 100 stranded persons during the 2024 flood crisis.

“Installed 12 satellite broadband internet systems across 5 LGAs and 7 digital literacy centers across 7 local government areas.

“Trained over 100 ITF students in software development, cybersecurity, and ICT governance, and incubated 30 secondary school students through collaboration with MAXITON technologies.

“Participated in over 20 workshops and stakeholders’ engagement sessions across the nation.

“Emerged as the 1st runner-up in Digital Technology Human Capital Development at the 12th National Council on Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy (NCCIDE),” Engr. Wanori stated.

Also speaking, the Technical Secretary of the agency, Bulama Sawa explained that the BICTDA’s mission extends beyond infrastructure repair, aiming to position Borno as a regional tech hub and leverage ICT to enhance government services.

The BICTDA’s commitment to digital human capital development has been recognised nationally, particularly its efforts in equipping youth with digital skills,” Sawa added.

NIGERIAN TRIBUNE