L–R: Benue State Commissioner for Information and Technology Kwaghgba Amande, CBN Makurdi Branch Controller Olabitan Adebowale, Government Model School Principal Dr. Robert Apir, Secretary to the Benue State Government Deborah Serumun Abeeh, Keystone Bank Executive Director (North and Public Sector) Abubakar Usman Bello, Commissioner for Science and Technology James Dwem, and Commissioner for Education and Knowledge Management Dr. Margaret Adamu at the handover ceremony of the newly equipped ICT centre.
Keystone Bank Limited has donated a fully equipped information and communication technology (ICT) centre to Government Model School, Makurdi, in a move aimed at strengthening digital literacy and improving access to modern learning tools.
The facility, located in the Benue State capital, was handed over at a ceremony attended by representatives of the state government and education sector stakeholders.
The event was attended by officials representing Governor Hyacinth Alia, including the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Deborah Serumun Abeeh.
Other attendees included the Commissioner for Education and Knowledge Management, Margaret Adamu; Commissioner for Science and Technology, James Dwem; Commissioner for ICT, Kwaghgba Amande; and the Central Bank of Nigeria branch controller, Olabitan Adebowale.
The ICT centre, delivered under Keystone Bank’s education support initiative, is fitted with laptops, workstations, ergonomic seating, air conditioning and an inverter-powered energy system. The facility also includes a dedicated hall designed to support teaching, research and digital learning.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Director, North and Public Sector of Keystone Bank, Abubakar Usman Bello, highlighted the bank’s commitment to improving access to digital tools and supporting educational development, particularly in underserved communities.
“Education remains one of the strongest foundations for any thriving society. It shapes minds, creates opportunities, and prepares the next generation of leaders,” he said.
“At Keystone Bank, we recognise that investing in education is not just a responsibility but a strategic contribution to national development. This is why we continue to support initiatives that promote learning, innovation and access to quality educational resources,” Bello added.
Also speaking, the bank’s Northern Regional Head, Bala Umar, said the initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 4, which focuses on quality education.
“This project is aimed at bridging infrastructure gaps, enhancing digital literacy, and preparing students for a technology-driven economy. We believe access to ICT facilities is critical to modern education and future workforce readiness,” he said.
In her remarks, Barrister Abeeh, representing Governor Alia, commended Keystone Bank for the initiative, noting that it reflects a strong commitment to human capital development in the state.
She conveyed the appreciation of the governor, who praised the bank and its management for the thoughtful intervention and their continued support for the education sector.
“This kind of partnership between the private sector and government is essential for sustainable development. We encourage more organisations to emulate this laudable initiative,” she said.
The Principal of Government Model School, Dr. Robert Apir, also described the ICT centre as a major boost to academic development.
He noted that the facility would significantly enhance teaching and learning, support digital examination processing, and improve computer literacy among both staff and students.
Apir appreciated the Benue State Ministry of Education for its support and assured that the facility would be properly maintained and optimally utilised.
