Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom has expressed his administration’s readiness to partner with T2 (formerly 9mobile) to accelerate digital technology growth and innovation across the state.

This is contained in a statement issued by T2 on Monday in Lagos.

The governor said the partnership would position Akwa Ibom as a front-runner in digital transformation, innovation, and talent development across the South-South region.

Mr Eno said the state government was committed to creating an enabling environment for young people to thrive in technology, creativity, and business.

The governor added that the administration’s goal was to empower youth through skill acquisition and digital inclusion.

“T2’s drive aligns perfectly with our agenda to build a digital Akwa Ibom, one where ideas and technology power the economy,” Mr Eno declared.

Also, the chief executive officer of T2, Obafemi Banigbe, described Akwa Ibom as Nigeria’s next digital innovation hub.

Mr Banigbe said the state was capable of birthing globally competitive startups and software-driven enterprises.

“I believe this state has the capacity to lead in building software solutions, artificial intelligence applications, and vibrant startup ecosystems,” Mr Banigbe said.

He said that sustainable development could only be achieved through investment in people and digital education.

“The future is not built on oil. It is built on education, human capital, and digital skills. If we fail to develop the next generation, we risk wasting the immense talent of our youth,” he said.

Mr Banigbe commended Akwa Ibom residents for their support of the brand.

He said the company had successfully overcome its recent challenges and was repositioning itself as a key driver of innovation and the digital economy.

The T2 boss said that it was ready to work closely with the state government to turn Akwa Ibom into the South-South’s digital powerhouse.

Mr Banigbe noted that the collaboration between Akwa Ibom and T2 marked a new chapter in the state’s digital transformation journey, driven by innovation, talent development, and youth empowerment.

Nigerian telecoms operator T2 rebranded from 9mobile recently as part of a strategic push to revive its market position.

(NAN)