Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has inaugurated a modern Digital Learning Centre built by the Katsina Local Government, describing the project as a strategic step toward youth empowerment and a significant boost to the state’s digital literacy and inclusive technological growth.
The commissioning ceremony, held at the Muhammad Dodo Primary School Layout in Katsina, saw Governor Radda emphasise that the fully equipped facility highlights the importance of grassroots-led development in preparing young people for the realities of a fast-changing digital world. He praised the Chairman of Katsina Local Government, Hon. Isah Miqdad, for initiating and completing what he termed a visionary project with long-term benefits for youths and the wider community.
According to the governor, the Digital Learning Centre is timely and well aligned with global technological trends. He explained that the centre is equipped with modern ICT facilities designed to offer practical training in computer usage, ICT operations, and general digital skills, which will enhance beneficiaries’ readiness for education, employment, and active participation in today’s technology-driven economy.
Governor Radda stressed that digital competence has become essential, noting that young people must be adequately equipped to compete, innovate, and succeed in an increasingly digital society. He also highlighted the progress recorded by Katsina State in ICT development and digital literacy, commending the State ICT Directorate for advancing the government’s digital agenda. The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to making Katsina a digitally inclusive and innovation-oriented state.
He further described the centre’s location within Katsina metropolis as strategic and accessible, pointing out that its proximity would allow more youths to benefit, especially as major examinations such as JAMB and WAEC have fully adopted computer-based testing. Governor Radda expressed confidence that the facility would serve thousands of young people over time, adding that digital preparedness remains key to competing favourably with other states.
Earlier, the Executive Chairman of Katsina Local Government, Hon. Isah Miqdad, said the establishment of the Digital Learning Centre was inspired by Governor Radda’s reform-focused leadership, particularly the decision to grant full financial autonomy to the state’s 34 local government councils. He noted that the policy encouraged councils to move beyond routine administration and invest in projects with lasting impact.
Miqdad disclosed that the centre was completed within five weeks despite limited resources, reflecting the council’s commitment to legacy-driven development. He said the facility is designed to promote digital literacy, creativity, and employable skills among youths, adding that efforts are already underway to secure national ICT examination and JAMB CBT accreditation to reduce students’ challenges and expand access to higher education.
Representing the Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), the Head of Partnership Division, Mr. Bashir Ibrahim, described the project as a strategic investment in human capital that aligns with NITDA’s Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL) initiative. He noted that the centre goes beyond physical infrastructure, focusing on inclusion, opportunity, and equipping young people with relevant digital skills for the modern economy.
Ibrahim added that the facility would enhance grassroots digital capacity and support blended learning, urging stakeholders to ensure proper utilisation, maintenance, and sustainability to guarantee long-term benefits.
