The Plateau State Government has intensified efforts to advance its digital transformation agenda, seeking stronger collaboration with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to expand connectivity and boost economic opportunities.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang made this known on Monday while receiving the NCC Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management, Rimini Makama, at the New Government House in Rayfield, Jos. He said the state is committed to positioning itself as a technology-driven hub through strategic partnerships, infrastructure development and policy reforms.

Mutfwang described the visit as timely, noting that it aligns with his administration’s declaration of 2025 as the year of digital innovation. He stressed the need to move from policy discussions to practical implementation, particularly in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence.

According to him, Plateau State is already pursuing initiatives aimed at strengthening its digital ecosystem, including collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme to establish an innovation hub at Plateau State Polytechnic, as well as a memorandum of understanding with Solitran to support broadband expansion across the state.

The governor also pointed to ongoing Federal Government broadband initiatives, urging the state to position itself to benefit from emerging opportunities in the digital economy. He further disclosed plans to launch a Business Process Outsourcing initiative expected to generate at least 500 remote jobs for youths in Jos.

He emphasised the importance of adopting modern administrative systems, stating that digital tools are essential for improving governance, transparency, and service delivery. He called for a coordinated, whole-of-government approach to accelerate the transition from outdated processes to e-governance systems.

On her part, Makama said her visit reflected both official engagement and a personal connection to Plateau State, adding that the NCC views the state as a key partner in Nigeria’s broadband expansion efforts. She noted that Plateau’s educational institutions and growing innovation ecosystem position it for digital growth.

However, she raised concerns about inadequate digital infrastructure in rural communities, stressing that bridging the digital divide requires deliberate collaboration among stakeholders. She assured that the NCC is ready to align its programmes with the state’s development priorities, including leveraging instruments such as the Universal Service Provision Fund and right-of-way support to expand connectivity.

Makama expressed optimism about the state’s prospects, describing Plateau as being at a pivotal stage in its digital journey and affirming the commission’s readiness to support initiatives that will translate its potential into measurable outcomes.