By Helen Okechukwu, JKNewsMedia Reporter
GOVERNOR SIMINALAYI Fubara has announced that no Information and Communications Technology (ICT) staff in the State Civil Service will be promoted without certification from the Computer Professionals Registration Council of Nigeria (CPN).
He made the disclosure at a dinner for the 2024 International Conference of the Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), which held in Port Harcourt.
He said this measure aims to eliminate quackery and enhance technology deployment in state operations.
Governor Fubara highlighted the state’s advancements in ICT, which have doubled internally generated revenue (IGR) and automated civil service processes.
He emphasized the need for technology-driven economic growth and urged the NCS to focus on positive applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to foster national development.
The Governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to maintaining a violence-free state and supporting technological advancements.
He invited the NCS to host future conferences in Rivers State and affirmed the administration’s dedication to improving the state’s technological and educational sectors.
Rivers State’s Tertiary Institutions Commended During Oversight Visit
In a separate event, Hon. Miriam Onuoha, Chairman of the House of Representatives Technical Sub-Committee on Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), applauded the Rivers State government for its exceptional performance in tertiary education.
Onuoha’s commendation came during a Thursday visit to Governor Siminalayi Fubara at the State Government House in Port Harcourt, aimed at overseeing TETFUND projects.
Onuoha lauded Fubara’s leadership, particularly his handling of the #EndBadGovernance protests and the hunger protest, highlighting his commitment to peace and stability.
She encouraged the Governor to continue his effective policies, which have positively impacted the state’s educational institutions.
The committee expressed satisfaction with the performance of four state institutions, noting their readiness to utilize TETFUND resources for infrastructure and training upgrades.
Governor Fubara reflected on the institutions’ top performance and their significant contributions across various sectors, including infrastructure, manpower, and student outcomes.
He stressed the importance of investing in education, especially primary schools, and requested the release of outstanding TETFUND allocations from 2020 to 2024.
Conference Highlights and Acknowledgments
At the conference dinner, Rivers State Commissioner for Education Dr. Ovy Chinedum Chukwuma underscored the Governor’s commitment to technological growth and its role in the state’s development.
NCS President Dr. Muhammad Sirajo Aliyu commended the Governor for his support and highlighted the state’s peaceful and hospitable environment.
The event featured awards for outstanding contributions in technology, including the Best Paper Award and recognitions for various competitions.
The dinner also showcased cultural performances by the Rivers State Cultural Troupe.
