PLASMIDA Advances Digital Economy Drive with AI Skills Training for Plateau Entrepreneurs

The Plateau State Microfinance Development Agency (PLASMIDA) has strengthened its commitment to building a digitally driven economy by organising an Advanced Digital Skills and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Activation Training for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the state.

The training, held at Novel Suites, Rayfield, Jos, brought together entrepreneurs, innovators, digital professionals, government officials and development partners with a shared objective of equipping businesses with practical AI-powered tools to improve productivity, enhance innovation and stimulate sustainable economic growth.

Declaring the programme open on behalf of the Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, the Secretary to the Government of the State, Arc. Samuel Jatau, described artificial intelligence as one of the defining technologies of the modern economy. He said the Mutfwang administration remains intentional about preparing young people and business owners to thrive in a technology-driven world through strategic investments in digital skills and entrepreneurship.
Arc. Jatau observed that unemployment, poverty and insecurity are interconnected challenges that require innovative solutions. According to him, empowering MSMEs with relevant digital competencies will not only improve livelihoods but also create opportunities that contribute to lasting peace and economic prosperity. He further highlighted Plateau State’s remarkable progress in the national ease of doing business rankings, noting that the state has moved from 26th to 6th position, a development he attributed to deliberate reforms aimed at creating a more business-friendly environment. He encouraged participants to remain focused, embrace continuous learning and build businesses capable of competing in the global marketplace.

In his welcome remarks, the Director General of PLASMIDA, Hon. Bomkam Ali Wuyep, described the training as another milestone in the agency’s efforts to empower entrepreneurs with the knowledge required to succeed in the digital age. He noted that the initiative reflects the Plateau State Government’s commitment to human capital development and economic transformation through technology. He urged participants to make the most of the opportunity by translating the skills acquired into practical solutions that would expand businesses, create employment and improve service delivery.

The Lead Consultant, Dr. Donald Nsofor, commended both the Plateau State Government and PLASMIDA for investing in digital innovation. He explained that artificial intelligence is rapidly changing the way businesses operate across the world and stressed that the training places Plateau entrepreneurs in a stronger position to take advantage of emerging opportunities. He encouraged participants to remain committed throughout the programme and adopt AI solutions that would improve creativity, efficiency and business performance.

Speaking on behalf of the mentors, Mrs. Abigail Bugama appreciated PLASMIDA for consistently creating platforms that promote learning, mentorship and capacity development. She described the AI activation programme as an opportunity for participants to gain practical knowledge that would strengthen both their personal growth and professional careers. She urged attendees to remain open-minded, ask questions and maximise every learning opportunity presented during the training.

Also speaking, Dr. Panan Gongden who is the state PYC chairman, described the initiative as a timely investment in the future of Plateau State’s economy. He noted that digital innovation is now central to development across every sector and encouraged participants to become ambassadors of the knowledge gained. He further called on stakeholders to explore the potential of artificial intelligence in addressing security concerns, improving governance and driving sustainable development.
Participants expressed appreciation to PLASMIDA for delivering a practical and impactful learning experience.

Barr. Panmak Lere who is a participant described the training as insightful and transformative, saying it had expanded his understanding of how artificial intelligence can support business development, innovation and long-term sustainability. He revealed that he had already begun applying some of the practical lessons shared by the facilitators. Similarly, fashion entrepreneur Ikegwu Lydia Chinelo said the programme transformed her perception of artificial intelligence. She explained that the practical demonstrations helped address her concerns about AI while exposing her to new ways of improving customer engagement, business management and professional development. She appealed to the Plateau State Government and PLASMIDA to sustain the initiative and extend it to more entrepreneurs across the state.

The event concluded with the presentation of certificates to participants, symbolising the successful completion of the training. The certificates were presented by the Director of Administration and Finance, PLASMIDA, Mr. Le’an Jackse, who congratulated the participants and encouraged them to put their newly acquired skills to productive use in building innovative and resilient businesses.