By 
By Osasome, O.C and Nana Theresa Timothy
The Borno State Information and Communication Technology Development Agency (BICTDA) has been named the 1st runner-up in Digital Technology Human Capital Development. BICTDA was recognised at the recent 12th National Council on Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy (NCCIDE). The announcement came after a peer review of 23 states during the prestigious event held in Makurdi, Benue State.
Kabiru Wanori, Executive Secretary of BICTDA, celebrated the milestone, highlighting the agency’s achievements despite being just eight months old. “Our agency was assessed across three categories: e-Governance, Infrastructure, and Human Capital Development. Emerging as the 1st runner-up in the Human Capital Development category underscores the success of Governor Babagana Umara Zulum. This has demonstrated his commitment to promoting digital literacy across Borno’s 27 local government areas,” Wanori said.
National Forum on AI and Digital Transformation
The 12th NCCIDE centered on leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Nigeria’s sustainable development under the theme, “Accelerating the Adoption of Artificial Intelligence through Policy and Innovation for Sustainable Development in Nigeria.”
The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Faruk Yusuf Yabo during the opening technical session reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to digital transformation. He said development agenda and economic growth can be significantly accelerated by leveraging AI as a transformative tool.
RELATED: BICTDA strengthens partnerships to drive digital transformation and economic growth in Borno State
This annual event serves as a key platform for stakeholders to discuss policies and strategies that drive Nigeria’s digital transformation. Attendees included state ICT and Digital Economy Commissioners, federal representatives, industry experts, and private-sector leaders.
The forum emphasised collaboration and reviewed existing policies to align with global trends while addressing challenges like infrastructure deficits and digital skill gaps.
Building a Future-Ready Digital Economy
The event built upon discussions from the previous NCCIDE meeting in Kano earlier this year, focusing on fostering partnerships and innovation. Key outcomes included:
- Policy Alignment: Updating policies to reflect global technology trends and national priorities.
- Strengthening Collaboration: Promoting partnerships between federal and state governments and private-sector stakeholders.
- Overcoming Barriers: Developing strategies to address challenges hindering Nigeria’s digital economy, such as infrastructure deficits and skill shortages.
Borno’s Role in Digital Transformation
BICTDA’s recognition highlights the state’s rising influence in Nigeria’s digital economy. Wanori credited the award to Borno’s strategic focus on human capital development, particularly in equipping youth with critical digital skills.
“This recognition motivates us to keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible for Borno and Nigeria’s digital ecosystem,” Wanori added.
The NCCIDE remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s efforts to lead in digital innovation, with events like this year’s forum reinforcing the nation’s commitment to leveraging technology for economic growth.
