Governor Radda Positions Katsina as Northern Nigeria’s Leading Tech Innovation Hub
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda of Katsina State has unveiled a visionary plan to make Katsina a leader in technology and innovation in Northern Nigeria. Speaking at the Arewa Tech Fest 2024 in Kano, Governor Radda emphasized his administration’s commitment to a tech-driven future through the “Building Your Future Strategic Policy Framework.” This blueprint aims to transform Katsina’s economy by empowering its youth with cutting-edge skills in digital technologies.
Key to this transformation is the establishment of the Katsina Directorate of ICT (KATDICT), which will lead the state’s digital revolution. “We are laying the foundation for a tech-driven Katsina,” the Governor declared, highlighting the ongoing initiatives to build infrastructure, policies, and talent to fuel this growth.
Governor Radda further underscored his commitment to human capital development, announcing scholarships for 68 young Katsina indigenes to study AI and Biotechnology at top global universities. “We are building future leaders for a tech-driven economy,” he remarked. His administration has also waived Right-of-Way charges to accelerate digital infrastructure, allowing telecommunication companies to lay fiber-optic cables across the state, enhancing connectivity and digital services.
In addition, the Governor revealed plans for a Unified Government Portal and the Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), aimed at streamlining government operations and improving service delivery. “Through E-Government, we are creating more efficient, transparent services that bring governance closer to the people,” he said, announcing the launch of a Data Revolution Masterplan to ensure data-driven governance in the state.
Governor Radda closed his remarks by calling for collective effort from all stakeholders to make Katsina a leading tech hub. “Together, we will transform Katsina into a beacon of innovation in Northern Nigeria,” he concluded.
Former Kano State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and Emir of Kano Sanusi Lamido Sanusi also addressed the audience, emphasizing the vast opportunities technology offers for development. El-Rufai urged Nigerians to invest in tech-driven human capital, while Sanusi called for greater collaboration between government and the private sector to create sustainable jobs for the youth.
The Arewa Tech Fest brought together dignitaries, policymakers, and industry leaders to explore opportunities in the tech sector and forge partnerships for innovation.
