The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has equipped the PRNigeria Centre in Ilorin, Kwara State, with advanced digital infrastructure in a landmark move to boost media innovation and youth-led technology adoption.

The initiative aligns with NITDA's broader mission to promote inclusive access to information technology and bridge the digital divide across Nigeria. The PRNigeria Centre, part of the network managed by Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR)-publishers of PRNigeria , Economic Confidential , and other titles-now joins operational hubs in Abuja and Kano as a key resource for digital empowerment.

Dr. Mohammed Onimisi Yahaya, NITDA's Acting Director of Project Management, stated at the commissioning ceremony: "This project is a strategic step toward building a digitally empowered society. It demonstrates NITDA's commitment to expanding access to technology and fostering youth innovation that supports national development goals."

The centre's upgraded facilities aim to provide training and tools to young Nigerians, enabling them to participate fully in the digital economy and drive local innovation.

The newly installed facilities include solar energy systems, high-performance computer systems, Huawei IdeaHub smart interactive displays, inverters, air conditioners, high-speed internet connectivity, and access to digital learning platforms.

Mr. Abdulhameed Tayo Shittu, Manager of the PRNigeria Centre Ilorin, hailed the transformation of the establishment and commended NITDA Director General, Mr. Kashifu Inuwa, for championing the digital agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration.

"With this upgraded infrastructure, we are better positioned to groom a new generation of digitally skilled communicators and changemakers," the manager said.

Shittu acknowledged the support of the Kwara State Government, the Ilorin Emirate, and community leaders, particularly Alhaji Kale Kawu Agaka (Daniyan Ilorin). He also praised the visionary leadership of IMPR CEO, Yushau A. Shuaib, and his consistent investment in youth mentorship and the promotion of modern communication skills.

Shittu announced the launch of the Creative Skills Bootcamp that will be facilitated by professionals and will feature practical workshops, welfare support, and certification for participants upon completion. The training programme offers hands-on sessions in storytelling, public speaking, video editing, photography, and graphic design.

The Ilorin Centre hosted its first cohort of PRNigeria Fellows in October 2024, following similar initiatives in Abuja and Kano. With the latest support from NITDA and the Creative Skills Bootcamp, the centre is poised to serve as a leading hub for digital skill acquisition and youth development in Kwara State and the North-Central region.

The Ilorin Centre also hosted training for journalists in Digital Journalism-in partnership with the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), and the inaugural Young Communication Fellowship on Artificial Intelligence for Strategic Communication, endorsed by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).

In three years, PRNigeria has trained approximately 300 journalists and empowered more than 1,400 young Nigerians with practical digital communication skills, using state-of-the-art technology.