Cross River to benefit from FG’s $617m i-DICE initiative – Presidency

Cross River State is poised to benefit from a significant investment in the creative and digital economy, BusinessDay has learnt.

The Federal Government’s Investment in Digital and Creative and Enterprises (i-DICE) programme valued at $617 million, would be of benefit to some States of the Federation, including Cross River State.

This news was announced by Fegho Umunubo, Special Assistant to the President on Creatives and Digital Economy (Office of the Vice President), during an interview at the recent World Creative and Innovation Day Conference.

The Special Assistant emphasized the Presidency’s recognition of the creative sector’s potentials for job creation and economic growth.

Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State however expressed his enthusiasm for the i-DICE initiative, pledging a continued support for the State’s creative sector during a courtesy visit by the delegation.

BusinessDay reports that i-DICE programme is aimed at empowering individuals in the digital and creative fields by providing them with skill development, infrastructure, and access to financing.

Cross River State, along with others, is expected to benefit from this initiative through the creation of hubs and training programme that will up the skill of the beneficiaries in order to meet up with international standards.

The importance of human capital development as a foundation for a thriving economy was a central theme at the World Creativity and Innovation Day Conference as experts highlighted some critical factors during discussions held at the Prof. Eyo Ita building conference hall.

The conference included interactive elements such as panel sessions and displays showcasing creativity by industry practitioners.