Saraki Says Suphi’s ICT Centre Will Unlock Bauchi Youths’ Global Opportunities

Former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has commended the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Bauchi State, Alhaji Usman Adamu Ahmed (Suphi), for establishing a 500-seater Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Computer-Based Test (CBT) Centre in Azare, saying the facility will equip youths with skills needed to compete in the global economy.

Saraki, who spoke on Sunday at the commissioning of the centre in Azare, Katagum Local Government Area, said the initiative represented a major investment in education, digital literacy and youth empowerment, particularly at a time Nigeria must urgently convert its large youth population into an economic advantage.

The former Senate President said the centre would provide young people in Bauchi and the North-east with access to digital skills, innovation and employment opportunities.

He said the facility would serve purposes beyond preparation for computer-based examinations, stressing that it could become a platform for digital literacy, entrepreneurship, innovation and access to the global marketplace.

According to him, “The internet has provided a platform where you can sell your skills and products to the global market. This centre will provide the young people with the opportunity to acquire those skills.”

Saraki expressed confidence that the centre would positively transform the aspirations of youths in Azare, Bauchi State and the wider North-east.

He disclosed that the centre could accommodate about 500 users, with each seat equipped with a brand-new laptop, Local Area Network (LAN) and other accessories required for computer-based testing.

He said the facility was designed to expose students and youths in Azare and neighbouring communities to digital technology and prepare them for computer-based examinations, professional certifications, emerging technology skills, employment and entrepreneurship.

Saraki highlighted that skills in software development, data analytics, cybersecurity, digital marketing and artificial intelligence could give young Nigerians access to global opportunities, remote employment and entrepreneurship.

The PDP chairman described the centre as a “factory for skills, an incubator for innovation, and a gateway” to opportunities for young people.

He added that increased digital literacy would help reduce youth unemployment and contribute to socio-economic development, while strengthening service delivery in sectors such as agriculture, education and healthcare.