FG, NITDA MOVE TO SITE NORTH-CENTRAL ZONAL TECHNOLOGY HUB IN PLATEAU — ENGR. NADUNGU GAGARE

The Federal Government has revealed that consultations are at an advanced stage between the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) toward establishing a North-Central Zonal Technology Office in Plateau State. The update was delivered by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Engr. Nadungu Gagare, during the Technical Session of Officials at the 13th Regular Meeting of the National Council on Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy (NCCIDE), held on Monday, December 8, 2025, at Crispan Suites & Event Centre, Jos. Engr. Gagare, while outlining memoranda still awaiting action, disclosed that Plateau State remains one of the key proposals under consideration. “Discussions are ongoing between the Ministry and NITDA on the establishment of the NITDA North-Central Office in Plateau State. This is a strategic project aimed at bolstering NITDA’s national visibility and strengthening its operational reach across the North-Central region. We are optimistic about a successful conclusion,” he stated. The Permanent Secretary further noted that memoranda already implemented include the successful installation of internet connectivity across all Plateau State Ministries, a move he described as a major boost to administrative efficiency, inter-agency collaboration, and access to digital government services. According to him, the improved connectivity has enhanced staff productivity and enabled smoother digital communication across departments. “We hope other states will replicate this milestone and fully commit to the drive for comprehensive digital transformation,” he added. Engr. Gagare revealed that 108 memoranda were reviewed during the session and called on stakeholders to provide progress reports on outstanding items. He also conveyed the Honourable Minister’s goodwill message to delegates attending the Council meeting themed “Accelerating Inclusive Digital Transformation: Bridging Gaps and Fostering Sustainable Growth Through Innovation.” The Council meeting was earlier declared open on behalf of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang by the Commissioner for Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Cletus Bako Shurkuk. Governor Mutfwang, in his message, warmly welcomed delegates and affirmed that Plateau State is positioned to lead Nigeria’s march toward a digitally driven society. He stressed that equitable access to technology is central to modern development and urged stakeholders to: “Create opportunities, empower communities, and ensure no Nigerian is left behind in the digital future.” He reiterated Plateau’s commitment to strengthening its innovation ecosystem, supporting tech start-ups, and expanding partnerships with leading global technology institutions. Earlier, the Plateau State Permanent Secretary for Science, Technology and Innovation, Lamba Peter Bot, described the Council gathering as a unique opportunity for states to align their technological priorities. He emphasized the need to close existing digital divides, strengthen youth empowerment, and mainstream innovation in national planning. The Director-General of PICTDA, Datong Dominic Gwanman, announced that Plateau has begun implementing a comprehensive shift from manual operations to data-driven governance, beginning with the full digitization of school management systems. Other contributions came from the Kano State Permanent Secretary for Science, Technology and Innovation, Abba A. Dan’guguwa, who underscored the importance of robust policy proposals to drive Nigeria’s institutional reforms, and NERDC Director, Dr. Garba Dahiru Gandu, who urged the adoption of global best practices to enhance national competitiveness. Speaking to journalists, Commissioner Shurkuk emphasized Plateau’s commitment to nurturing local innovators across the state’s 17 Local Government Areas. He highlighted priority areas such as innovation funding, incubation programmes, intellectual property protection, networking platforms, and periodic innovation showcases. These, he said, are essential for job creation, youth development, and the expansion of the state’s tech economy. The 13th NCCIDE meeting features Technical Sessions, a Council Plenary, and Innovation Exhibitions. Plateau State is also preparing to host a Festival of Innovation, Science and Technology in February, which will highlight digital economy opportunities, strengthen the innovation value chain, and promote start-up growth.