Plateau intensifies tech overhaul efforts, pursues partnership with telecoms regulator

The Plateau State Government is stepping up its efforts to create a technology-driven economy, with the goal of making the state a leading digital hub through partnerships and reforms that promote job creation and sustainable economic growth.

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According to Governor Caleb Mutfwang, this goal was reaffirmed during a courtesy visit by the Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management at the Nigerian Communications Commission, Ms Rimini Makama, to the New Government House in Jos on Monday.

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The governor described Makama's visit as timely and significant, as it aligns with his administration's declaration of 2025 as the year of digital innovation, and stressed the need to shift from policy discussions to practical solutions, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence.

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Mutfwang noted that the state has had extensive conversations about the digital space, but now it's time to move from dialogue to action, especially when it comes to harnessing the potential of artificial intelligence to drive development.

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The governor highlighted the state government's ongoing efforts to expand digital infrastructure and strengthen innovation ecosystems, including a collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme to establish an innovation hub at Plateau State Polytechnic.

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He also mentioned an existing Memorandum of Understanding with Solitran aimed at accelerating broadband deployment across the state, as well as Federal Government initiatives on nationwide broadband expansion, emphasizing the need for Plateau State to act swiftly to leverage emerging opportunities.

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The governor disclosed plans to establish a Business Process Outsourcing initiative that is expected to create employment for at least 500 youths, enabling them to work remotely from Jos, and cautioned against delays in seizing these time-sensitive opportunities.

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Mutfwang called for a coordinated approach to digital transformation, emphasizing that technology cuts across all sectors of governance, and expressed concern over outdated administrative practices, stressing the urgency of transitioning to modern systems.

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He stated that relying on outdated tools in the 21st century is no longer acceptable, and that accelerating e-governance will enhance service delivery, promote transparency, and unlock opportunities in e-commerce and innovation.

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Earlier, the Executive Commissioner of the NCC, Makama, described her visit as both official and personal, reflecting her strong ties to Plateau State, and noted that choosing Plateau for her first courtesy visit underscores the commission's recognition of the state's strategic importance in Nigeria's digital landscape.

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Makama observed that Plateau State has significant assets for digital growth, including reputable educational institutions and a rapidly emerging innovation ecosystem, but raised concerns about limited access to digital infrastructure in many rural communities.

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The NCC has identified Plateau State as a key partner in advancing Nigeria's broadband agenda, but Makama noted that many rural communities remain underserved and disconnected from the opportunities that digital connectivity can provide.

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She emphasized that bridging the digital divide requires deliberate collaboration among stakeholders and assured the state government of the NCC's readiness to align its initiatives with Plateau's development priorities.

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Makama expressed optimism about the state's digital future, noting that Plateau stands at a critical point in its digital journey, and stated that the NCC is ready to partner with the government to translate that potential into tangible outcomes.