The Bauchi State Government has launched the Bauchi State Innovation and Startup Law 2026 and graduated more than 100 youths trained in cybersecurity under its Cybernation Programme.
The initiative, implemented in partnership with technology firm Protexxa, aims to equip young people with internationally recognised cybersecurity skills and prepare them for employment opportunities in the global digital economy.
Governor Bala Mohammed, represented by his deputy, Auwal Jatau, announced the development on Tuesday during the law's launch and the graduation ceremony held in Bauchi.
The governor said his administration was committed to using technology to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, strengthen public institutions and expand opportunities for young people.
He described digital transformation as a critical driver of modern governance and economic competitiveness, noting that the state had taken deliberate steps to establish an enabling environment for technological innovation.
Mohammed also disclosed that the government had approved a zero Right of Way charge for broadband infrastructure deployment across the state to encourage telecommunications companies and internet service providers to expand their networks to underserved communities.
According to him, the policy is designed to reduce barriers to internet access and enable young people in rural areas to benefit from digital opportunities available to their counterparts in urban centres.
The governor further revealed that the partnership with Protexxa included a commitment to secure employment for at least 80 per cent of the programme's graduates.
He said the Cybernation Programme and the newly introduced startup law were complementary initiatives aimed at developing digital skills while creating an enabling environment for technology-driven businesses.
Mohammed explained that the law would provide a framework for supporting startups through incentives, investment opportunities and institutional backing, enabling entrepreneurs to transform innovative ideas into sustainable businesses.
He urged ministries, departments and agencies, lawmakers, technology companies, investors and other stakeholders to collaborate in ensuring the effective implementation of the law.
The governor also advised the graduates to maintain professional standards, continue improving their skills and apply their knowledge responsibly, particularly in protecting digital infrastructure and sensitive information.
Speaking at the event, the Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, Abubakar Suleiman, congratulated the graduates and described their achievement as an important milestone that could open doors to careers in cybersecurity, technical support and other technology-related fields.
Suleiman encouraged the graduates to gain practical experience, pursue professional certifications and engage in continuous learning to improve their employment and entrepreneurship prospects.
He added that their skills could help protect public and private institutions, strengthen online security and educate communities about internet fraud and other cyber threats.
The Speaker also reaffirmed the Assembly's commitment to supporting legislation that promotes residents' welfare and economic development.
He disclosed that the House had passed the bill establishing a framework for the development and regulation of technology-enabled startups and an innovation-driven economy, including the creation of the Bauchi State Startup Fund.
In her remarks, Protexxa's Country Representative, Abi Hafsat, commended the state government for investing in the digital skills of young people.
She said the programme demonstrated the potential of partnerships between government and the private sector to prepare young people for emerging opportunities in the technology industry.
Hafsat added that Protexxa had fulfilled its commitment to developing a new generation of cybersecurity professionals through the initiative.
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