By Khalid Idris Doya
The Bauchi State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to creating an enabling environment for startups to thrive, with a strong focus on digital transformation and innovation as tools for solving real societal challenges.
Chief of Staff, Government House Bauchi, Dr. Aminu Hassan Gamawa, stated this at the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) stakeholders' engagement and capacity-building for startups, held at the International Conference Centre (ICC), Bauchi, on Wednesday. The programme was organised by the office of the iDICE Focal Person in the state.
Gamawa noted that the gathering reflects a shared vision where innovation, collaboration, and digital transformation serve as key drivers of economic growth and opportunities for the people.
Represented by the permanent secretary, Government House Bauchi, Alhaji Yakubu Jibrin, he described the iDICE initiative as timely and strategic, bringing together policymakers, innovators, investors, and entrepreneurs to exchange ideas, build capacity, and strengthen partnerships that will shape the future of the digital economy.
"As a government, we recognise the critical role startups and ICT stakeholders play in driving job creation, improving service delivery, and positioning our state competitively in the digital age.
"This is why we will continue to support initiatives that empower our youth, encourage innovation, and promote sustainable development," Gamawa said.
Also speaking, the State Commissioner for Cooperatives and SMEs Development, Hon. Muhammad Sadeeq Hamisu Shira, commended the organizers for convening key players across the ecosystem to engage in meaningful discussions on innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital growth.
He described the engagement as more than just an event, noting that it provides a platform for sharing ideas, building partnerships, and developing practical solutions.
"The digital economy continues to shape how we live, work, and do business. For Bauchi State, this presents a significant opportunity to harness the creativity and energy of our young people and position the state as a hub for innovation and enterprise," he said.
Represented by the director-general of the Bauchi State Bureau for ICT and Digital Economy (BICTDE), Hayatudeen Babamaji, the commissioner added that the iDICE initiative is particularly significant as it focuses on strengthening startups, building capacity, and connecting stakeholders to opportunities that drive sustainable growth.
"These are exactly the kinds of interventions needed to unlock the full potential of our ecosystem," he added.
He further reiterated the government's commitment to supporting businesses and innovators through policies that promote digital skills, entrepreneurship, and investment attraction.
Earlier, Ibrahim Tijjani Ibrahim, the Focal Person for the iDICE programme in Bauchi State, said the initiative is designed to upskill Nigerian youth, support startups, and create sustainable jobs, particularly for young people aged 15 to 35 across the country.
He added that the workshop was aimed at engaging stakeholders, building capacity, and equipping startups with practical skills for investment readiness and long-term sustainability.
Tijjani explained that iDICE is a federal government initiative focused on promoting investment in the digital and creative sectors.
He further noted that the programme forms part of Nigeria's broader efforts to build a stronger, greener, and more inclusive economy, while creating sustainable employment opportunities for its growing youth population.
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