The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has launched four electronic governance platforms developed by the Benue Digital Infrastructure Company Plc (BDIC).
The governor, who also unveiled the training of 40,000 civil servants in digital tools and ICT skills in Makurdi, stressed that the event marked a watershed in the transformative journey of his administration which is determined to revolutionise the way government does business.
The solutions launched were the Benue State Government Electronic Document Management System (EDMS), Benue State Geographic Information System (BENGIS) portal, Benue Youth Startup and Innovation Support Portal and the Office of the Benue State Head of Service Website.
He said, “These platforms will improve service delivery, streamline administrative processes, and create opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship. The most significant aspect of this transformation is in the training of 40, 000 civil servants of our dear state and the local government areas.
“This capacity-building exercise will ensure that our workforce is equipped with the digital skills required to efficiently operate within the new Benue State Government Electronic Document Management System (EDMS). With this training, we are fostering a future-ready workforce that can adapt to the demands of the rapidly evolving world.”
He appreciated the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) and Galaxy Backbone Ltd for their sustained support in ensuring that the project to transform the digital landscape of Benue was a success.
Gov Alia said the Electronic Document Management System (EDMS) will revolutionise the way government entities manage records and official correspondences, and ensure faster decision-making while enhancing transparency and productivity.
He added that the Benue State Geographic Information System (BENGIS) portal will facilitate seamless access to land management services and eliminate bureaucratic delays while the Benue Youth Startup and Innovation Support Portal is a deliberate step to nurture youths’ entrepreneurial spirit.
Earlier, the Managing Director and the CEO of the BDIC, Hon Terwase Gbande, while thanking the governor for his support which has enabled him to deliver on the project, said Benue was leading the charge in digital transformation of a largely analogue civil service in Nigeria.
He said, “What we are doing today is the Governor of Benue State doesn’t expect you to travel from Abuja to submit a document to his office or the Head of Service to any MDA in Benue State.
“Upon this launch, you don’t need to go to BENGIS any longer for you to see your application for land titles processing. And the Governor will not be signing land titles manually again. We have automated the whole process.”
The president of DBI, Engr. David Daser and the CEO of NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji were present at the launch and will contribute significantly to the training of the civil servants.