Every once in a while, you find yourself part of something that feels bigger than just a meeting or a tour—it feels like a turning point. That was exactly how I felt as I joined His Excellency, Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago, and Deputy Governor Comrade Yakubu Garba in welcoming a high-level delegation from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Nigeria, led by Mr. Mohamed Yahya.
As Commissioner for Communications Technology and Digital Economy, I was proud to stand alongside other key members of the administration—Hon. Mustapha Ndajiwo, Commissioner for Budget and Planning, and several heads of ministries and agencies—united in a shared mission: to move Niger State boldly into the future.
A Moment of Pride: Visiting Labspace Nigeria
One of the standout moments of the day was our visit to Labspace Nigeria, a dynamic, women-led innovation hub right here in Niger State. As we walked through the space, the energy was palpable—young women leading, innovating, and building solutions with technology. I had the honour of briefing the UNDP team about Governor Bago’s broader vision to replicate such hubs across the state.
Our aim is simple, yet powerful: to build centres where innovation thrives—where our youth can gain skills, ignite their creativity, and build sustainable careers in tech and entrepreneurship. The Governor’s vision isn’t limited to infrastructure or connectivity—it’s about empowering real people with real opportunities. And this visit was a beautiful representation of that goal coming to life.
Forging Global Partnerships: The GIZ SEDIN Workshop
Just days earlier, the Deputy Governor, representing Governor Bago, delivered a compelling keynote at the GIZ SEDIN workshop—another milestone event I was privileged to be part of. Hosted at Guidel Hotel in Minna, the workshop brought together stakeholders under the theme of inclusive economic growth, entrepreneurship, and employment.
Listening to Governor Bago’s address, I was reminded of why we do this work. He acknowledged the tough challenges our state faces—poverty, unemployment, infrastructure gaps, and more—but he also made it clear that we aren’t just highlighting problems; we’re actively building solutions through meaningful partnerships like the one we have with GIZ.
Mr. Markus Vashkur, GIZ SEDIN’s Head of Programme, reaffirmed their commitment to collaborate with us—focusing on decent jobs, income generation, and private sector growth rooted in local realities.
A Future We’re Building—Together
Both events were more than ceremonial engagements. They were real steps on a path we’re walking—toward a Niger State that’s inclusive, innovative, and prosperous. As someone charged with helping lead our digital transformation efforts, I left both days energized and deeply hopeful.
Governor Bago’s vision isn’t abstract—it’s actionable. It’s in the tech hubs we’re creating. It’s in the workshops where new ideas are taking root. It’s in every young girl learning to code, every youth turning a business idea into reality, and every partner stepping forward to build alongside us.
The future is already unfolding—and I’m honoured to be part of the team shaping it.
