The Sokoto State Government (SOSG), through the Ministry of Innovation and Digital Economy (MIDE), received the management team of the Usmanu Danfodiyo University Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship Hub (UDIE-Hub) to discuss collaboration in digital skills development, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
The UDIE-Hub, established by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) as an ICT Park within Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, is now known as the Usmanu Danfodiyo University Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship Hub. The facility serves as a strategic center for research, incubation, and startup development. Its focus areas include Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), Blockchain, Cybersecurity, and Data Science, providing a platform for nurturing innovation, entrepreneurship, mentorship, and digital skills development.
Represented by Musab Hassan Bodinga, the Centre Manager, Ahmad Isah Chafe, explained that the Hub is one of only two established in the Northwest region by the NCC, one located at the Daura University of Transport, Katsina, and the other at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, which serves as the lead centre.
He further noted that the Hub is dedicated to transforming innovative ideas from students, staff, and youth into viable products and enterprises. He also emphasized that empowering young women through digital skills remains one of the core agendas of the Centre. He extended an invitation to the Ministry to visit and inspect the Hub’s facilities at the University.
In response, the Honourable Commissioner for Innovation and Digital Economy, Hon. Bashar Umar Kwabo, commended the initiative, describing it as timely and in alignment with the vision of Governor Dr. Ahmad Aliyu, FCNA, Executive Governor of Sokoto State.
He assured that the Ministry would collaborate with UDIE-Hub to expand youth empowerment, strengthen ICT education, and advance Sokoto State’s innovation ecosystem.
The Commissioner further commended Ahmad Isah Chafe, Manager of the UDIE Centre, describing him as a visionary leader and a potential partner in advancing the digital sector. He also assured that the Ministry would soon visit the institution to inspect its facilities.
Furthermore, He expressed enthusiasm for the collaborative spirit demonstrated by the UDIE-Hub team and their commitment to partnering with the Ministry to drive digital innovation across the state. He emphasized the importance of this partnership, particularly as the nation moves toward implementing Computer-Based Testing (CBT) examinations for secondary schools.
The meeting was attended by key officials, including Murtala Nuhu, Director of ICT (MIDE); Kabir Garba, Deputy Director of Finance (MIDE); and Muhammad Abubakar, Head of Digital Media and Communications.
Muhammad Abubakar
Head of Digital Media and Communications
10-11-2025
