The Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) on Friday, 28th November, 2025, presented the 2025 Digital Excellence Award to the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to digital transformation and broadband expansion in the state.
The award was received on behalf of the Governor at the NAF Conference Centre, Abuja, by the Deputy Governor of Benue State, Barr. Dr. Sam Ode, mni, who was accompanied by the Group Managing Director/CEO of the Benue Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC) and President/CEO of the Africa Digital Infrastructure Company (AfDIC).
ATCON described Governor Alia’s leadership as “visionary and transformative,” noting that his digital reforms are positioning Benue as one of Nigeria’s leading subnationals in infrastructure modernization and technological innovation.
A major highlight of the Governor’s reforms is the introduction of Free Right of Way (RoW) for all telecommunications operators deploying fibre optic cables across the state, an unprecedented initiative that has attracted new investments and accelerated broadband penetration.
The Governor was also commended for convening the first Benue Telecommunications Summit, which brought together regulators, industry leaders and operators to address sectoral challenges and strengthen partnerships. ATCON said the summit has contributed to improving industry confidence and fostering a more enabling digital ecosystem in the state.
Other reforms cited include the deployment of fibre connectivity across 18 MDAs, training of 10,000 Benue youths in digital skills, the ongoing training of 40,000 civil servants on digital governance, and the establishment of the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy. The creation of the Benue State Digital Infrastructure Services Management Enforcement Agency, as well as Benue Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC) as the state’s hub for digital public infrastructure were also highlighted as major steps toward building a knowledge-driven economy.
According to sources from BDIC and AfDIC, the recognition will reinforce the state government’s commitment to youth empowerment and digital inclusion, particularly through the rollout of the 23,000-youth digital skills training programme across all Local Government Areas and the partnership with the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Creativity.
Officials say these initiatives will continue to expand broadband access, empower communities and support the broader socio-economic transformation of Benue State.
