Kogi State Information and Communication Technology Development Agency has intensified efforts to equip students across the state with relevant digital skills, as part of a broader strategy to promote digital inclusion and technological growth in the state.

The Director General of the agency, Dr. Bashir Tenuche, made this known in an exclusive interview on Lugard TV in Lokoja.

He noted that empowering students with practical knowledge in Information and Communication Technology is crucial for preparing them for the digital age and improving performance in computer-based assessments.

According to Tenuche, the agency is already seeking collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) to create opportunities towards enhancing digital literacy among youths in the state.

“As part of our intervention, we are working on setting up ICT labs in tertiary institutions such as Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Kogi State University, Kabba and Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba. These labs will help students gain practical knowledge in software development and innovation,” he said.

Tenuche described the agency as the first of its kind in North Central Nigeria, and said it is committed to building a tech-driven future for Kogi state beginning with the youth.

He added that beyond skills acquisition, the agency is also laying the foundation for e-governance by auditing Ministries,, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to assess their level of ICT adoption.

He commended the enthusiasm among civil servants, noting that poor infrastructure remains a major challenge.

“Digital literacy and infrastructure must go hand in hand. To fully embrace digital transformation, we must continue investing in capacity building and ICT equipment,” he stressed.

He commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for establishing the ICT Development Agency, describing it as a bold step towards digital transformation in governance, education, and economic growth.

Tenuche encouraged students, institutions, and young innovators to collaborate with the agency, assuring that platforms are being created for feedback, training, and innovation across the state.

“The future belongs to those who understand ICT, whether you are just beginning or already on the journey, digital skills will always keep you relevant,” he said.