The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to accelerating national development through digital technology and innovation.
Tinubu stated this in her address at the official commissioning and handover ceremony of a digital learning centre to Model Technical College, Asaba, the Delta State capital.
Represented by the wife of the Delta State Governor, Mrs. Tobore Oborovwori, the First Lady said a technology-driven system of learning remains the foundation for educational advancement in any nation.
“In today’s changing world, digital knowledge is no longer optional, but an essential tool for learning and a key driver of national development,” she said.
“The Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), working in collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), is committed to advancing national development by providing our people access to modern technology.”
In his welcome remarks, the Director-General of NITDA, Mr. Kashifu Abdullahi, said the establishment of the IT learning centre in Asaba demonstrated the Federal Government’s determination to make technology accessible to all Nigerians.
Abdullahi, represented by Dr. Dimie Wariowei, urged the management and students of Model Technical College to make optimal use of the facility to enhance teaching and learning.
“This project is part of a collaboration between NITDA and the Renewed Hope Initiative of the First Lady. The centre in Asaba is one of ten being commissioned today across the country.
“Out of these ten IT centres, the South-South region is benefiting from two — one here in Asaba, Delta State, and another in Irrua, Edo State,” Abdullahi explained.
Also speaking, the Delta State Commissioner for Technical Education, Mr. Smart Ufoh, commended the Federal Government for establishing the IT centre, noting that it would help improve students’ learning experience and strengthen digital literacy.
“This facility will serve as a hub for innovation, creativity, and skills acquisition, empowering students with the technical competence needed to excel in today’s technology-driven world.
“It is a testament to the Federal Government’s dedication to bridging the digital divide and promoting technological advancement in Nigeria,” Ufoh said.
The Principal of Model Technical College, Mrs. Violet Uwajare, expressed gratitude to NITDA and the Renewed Hope Initiative, describing the project as a transformative step in digital education.
“This IT centre is a remarkable gesture that demonstrates the government’s commitment to improving education.
“It is not just a learning tool but a platform that allows our students to dream big and achieve their aspirations.
“The facility will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy on our learning system,” she said.
It was also reported that Mrs. Tobore Oborovwori, who represented the First Lady, was herself represented at the ceremony by the wife of the Secretary to the Delta State Government, Dr. Josephine Emu.
Highlights of the event included the official ribbon-cutting and unveiling of the IT centre by the representative of the First Lady, as well as a cultural dance performance by students of the Model Technical College, Asaba, showcasing the rich culture of the Anioma people.
