By Maikudi Muhammad Marafa
Kano to Build ICT, CBT Centres in All 44 LGAs with ₦27.8 Billion Investment
The Kano State Government has approved the allocation of ₦27.806 billion for the establishment of modern Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres across the 44 Local Government Areas of the state as part of efforts to bridge the digital divide and expand access to technology-driven education.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Muhammad Tajuddin Uthman, disclosed this while briefing journalists at the Kano Press Centre, where he highlighted key initiatives of the administration aimed at strengthening security, education, healthcare and digital infrastructure across the state.
According to the Commissioner, each of the 44 Local Government Areas will have a fully equipped ICT and CBT centre to enable students and residents to access computer-based examinations and other digital services within their communities, eliminating the need to travel to Kano metropolitan.
He explained that the project was conceived to address the challenges faced by students, particularly those from rural areas, who currently travel long distances to sit for computer-based examinations due to the lack of modern ICT facilities in their localities.
«“With more examinations and essential public services now being conducted electronically, it has become imperative to provide accessible ICT infrastructure in every Local Government Area. This initiative will ensure that students and residents can conveniently access these services closer to their homes,” Uthman said.»
The Commissioner cited communities such as Dambatta and Gaya, where candidates often travel to Kano city to write CBT examinations, noting that the new centres would significantly reduce the burden on students and improve access to digital opportunities.
Beyond serving as examination centres, Uthman said the facilities would function as digital hubs where residents could access computers, internet services and other online platforms for education, research, entrepreneurship, and e-government services, thereby enhancing digital literacy across the state.
He disclosed that each ICT and CBT centre would consist of three examination halls, with each hall accommodating 100 candidates, giving every centre a total seating capacity of 300 students at a time.
To support seamless operations, each facility will be equipped with 300 computers, enabling large numbers of candidates to participate simultaneously in computer-based examinations and other digital activities.
The Commissioner further revealed that the government has made adequate arrangements to guarantee uninterrupted electricity supply to the centres through a combination of Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO) supply, standby generators and solar energy systems.
He added that the centres are expected to operate 24 hours daily, providing flexible access for students, entrepreneurs and other users beyond regular working hours.
The Kano State Government reaffirmed its commitment to investing in technology, education and digital innovation as key pillars for sustainable development, youth empowerment and economic growth.
The establishment of ICT and CBT centres in all 44 Local Government Areas is expected to significantly expand access to digital education, improve computer literacy and position Kano as a leading state in technology-driven public service delivery.
