Benue State has entered into a partnership with the Japanese government to strengthen its digital and technological ecosystem, with a particular emphasis on supporting local startups and generating employment. The collaboration, which is being implemented through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), was disclosed in Makurdi by Jeff Udende, the Programme Team Leader for Benue Test Kits. He stated that the initiative aims to equip startups with technical skills from the foundational stage while also securing financial support to help them grow into established tech companies. JICA Expert on Strategy and Startups, Não Fawa Fuwa, highlighted that the agency has been actively involved in Nigeria’s Innovation landscape since 2020.
The initiative aligns with the Benue State government’s efforts to drive Economic Growth through digital transformation. In recent years, several Nigerian states have begun exploring similar partnerships to strengthen their tech industries, recognising the sector’s potential to create jobs and attract investment. However, many startups face significant challenges, including limited access to funding, inadequate technical expertise, and Infrastructure deficits. By providing direct support, the collaboration with JICA could help Benue bridge some of these gaps and position itself as an emerging Technology hub.
Success of the Initiative depends on long-term sustainability.
One of the key aspects of the programme is its focus on long-term sustainability. While external funding and technical training are critical, the ultimate success of the initiative will depend on how well startups can operate independently after the initial support ends. Many international development programmes in Nigeria have struggled with continuity, as businesses often fail to scale once donor funding is exhausted. To avoid this pitfall, the Benue State government may need to create additional policies that incentivise private-sector participation and ensure that local startups remain competitive.
Beyond job creation, the partnership could drive innovation across key sectors in Benue state, including agriculture, healthcare, and commerce. Digital tools could also help farmers boost Productivity through precision farming and online market access, while telemedicine could improve healthcare services in remote areas. Small businesses would also benefit from digital financial services, making transactions and credit access much easier. By integrating technology into these areas, the state could strengthen its Economy and attract further investment.
Unreliable electricity remains a major challenge.
However, for these benefits to be fully realised, there must be significant Investment in infrastructure. Reliable internet connectivity, stable power supply, and modern co-working spaces are essential for any technology-driven economy. Benue, like many other states, still grapples with unreliable Electricity and inconsistent Broadband access, which could hinder the impact of the JICA partnership. Addressing these challenges will require coordinated efforts between the government, private investors, and telecommunications companies to ensure that startups can operate in an enabling environment.
Another critical factor in the programme’s success will be digital literacy. While tech hubs in major cities like Lagos and Abuja benefit from a pool of skilled developers and entrepreneurs, smaller states often face a talent gap. Bridging this divide requires targeted Education initiatives, including coding boot camps, university partnerships, and mentorship programmes. If Benue can cultivate a strong Pipeline of tech talent, it will not only enhance the success of the JICA-backed startups but also make the state attractive to other global Investors looking to expand into Nigeria’s digital space.
Related Article: BOA to empower 27,600 Benue women with loans
Overall, the collaboration between Benue and Japan reflects growing international confidence in Nigeria’s tech sector and its potential to drive economic growth. If properly executed, it could transform the state’s economy by equipping young entrepreneurs with skills and funding while attracting investment and fostering innovation. A strong digital ecosystem could also create more job opportunities and support businesses across various sectors. If Benue sustains this momentum, it could serve as a model for other states looking to harness technology for development, reinforcing the role of digital transformation in Nigeria’s future.