Dr. Peter Mbah, the Executive Governor of Enugu State has been recognized with Nigeria’s prestigious Best in Digital Technology Human Capital Development Award at the 12th National Council on Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy (NCCIDE).
The event, which took place from December 2 to December 6, 2024, at the NNAM Hall Complex and Hotel Makurdi in Benue State, highlighted the growing role of digital technology in shaping the future of Nigeria.
Themed “Accelerating the Adoption of Artificial Intelligence Through Policy and Innovation for Sustainable Development in Nigeria,” the gathering attracted policymakers, industry experts, and stakeholders to discuss how digital technologies can drive national growth.
Governor Peter Mbah’s consistent efforts to advance digital technology in Enugu State, particularly through human capital development, were widely celebrated. This achievement is a testament to his administration’s dedication to cultivating a skilled workforce equipped to leverage digital tools and drive innovation across various sectors, including governance, health, business, education, and agriculture. Under his leadership, Enugu has made significant strides in building a dynamic digital workforce, positioning the state as a leader in digital innovation.
The recognition of Governor Mbah’s excellence in Digital Technology Human Capital Development was met with applause from delegates and experts, affirming the state’s commitment to fostering a vibrant, digitally literate population. Enugu has invested in education reforms and the creation of technology hubs, making it a model for other states looking to integrate digital skills into their development strategies. This proactive approach to human capital development is particularly vital in the face of rapid technological advancements and the global rise of AI.
Receiving the award on behalf of the governor, the Enugu State Commissioner for Innovation, Science, and Technology, Dr. Prince Lawrence Ezeh, PhD, FNSE, COREN, emphasized the governor’s focus on driving innovation across various sectors, including governance, health, business, industrialization, trade, education, youth empowerment and agriculture.
Governor Mbah’s commitment to digital transformation, Dr. Ezeh, said, is already reflecting on across the state’s ecosystem conducive to entrepreneurship and innovation, adding the Governor’s is not just about adopting digital technologies, but about ensuring they become an integral part of governance and economic activities. He said, “Our governor’s commitment to digital transformation is steadfast. He believes that the future of Enugu lies in harnessing technology to create new opportunities, improve lives, and build a sustainable economy.”
Dr. Ezeh noted that the administration’s focus is on ensuring that digital technologies are not isolated but are embedded within all areas of governance and business. “His Excellency is not simply talking about digital technology in isolation; he is ensuring it becomes integral to our progress,” he said.
Governor Mbah’s administration has adopted a multi-dimensional approach to fostering innovation, which includes investing in youth education, forming strategic partnerships with the private sector, and applying digital solutions in key sectors such as healthcare, education, and agriculture, transportation etc.
The state has collaborated with both global tech companies and local institutions to provide specialized training programs aimed at equipping young people with the skills needed to thrive in a digital economy. By focusing on education and providing resources for skill development, Enugu is preparing its citizens to meet the demands of a rapidly changing digital landscape.
Governor Mbah recognition as the leader in Digital Technology Human Capital Development is not only a significant milestone for the state but also for Nigeria as a whole. As the country moves towards greater digital transformation, Enugu’s model of integrating technology into governance and education offers a blueprint for other states to follow. The state’s emphasis on human capital development is a critical step in ensuring that Nigeria’s workforce is equipped to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
At the NCCIDE event, discussions centered around how AI and emerging technologies can be harnessed to address key national challenges, including healthcare access, food security, and economic inclusion. Enugu’s commitment to adopting AI aligns with the federal government’s broader vision of using digital tools to drive national growth. Dr. Ezeh reaffirmed Enugu’s readiness to embrace these technologies, stating, “We are investing in the future by adopting technologies that will help us overcome current challenges. Artificial intelligence is central to that future, and Enugu is prepared to harness its potential for sustainable development.”
As Nigeria advances into the digital age, Enugu’s model offers an inspiring example of how strategic investments in human capital and technology can propel development. Governor Mbah’s vision of a digitally driven economy, supported by a skilled and innovative workforce, is positioning Enugu at the forefront of Nigeria’s digital transformation. Through education, innovation, and a commitment to sustainable technology adoption, Enugu is securing its future while contributing to Nigeria’s broader digital economy ambitions. This recognition at the NCCIDE underscores the state’s role as a leader in shaping Nigeria’s digital future.
Discussion about this post