Foundation partners Abia government to establish ICT centre, empower women

The Erinma Ucheya Oke Foundation has partnered with the Abia state government to promote grassroots digital literacy through the establishment of a fully equipped information and communication technology (ICT) centre.

During a recent visit to Nigeria from her base in Baltimore, Maryland, USA, Nkechinyere Springs, founder of the foundation, inspected the Chief Erinma Ucheya Oke ICT Centre located at the Aba Town Hall in Aba south LGA.

The centre, established during the tenure of former mayor Uche Wogu, was donated by the foundation to enhance technological skills among residents.

The centre is currently being maintained under the leadership of Obialor Anyanwu, the incumbent mayor.

Both Wogu and Anyanwu were present to receive the foundation’s team and reaffirmed their commitment to utilise the facility for youth training and public service efficiency.

Wogu described the intervention as timely, noting that digital literacy is essential for 21st-century governance and economic growth.

He noted that early beneficiaries of the facilities included councillors, heads of departments and other staff of the council area, adding that the centre extend its training to three primary schools in the LGA.

Anyanwu, on his part, thanked the foundation and said the LGA is considering solar power alternatives to address electricity challenges at the facility.

Springs expressed satisfaction with the centre’s condition but urged local authorities to ensure it is used consistently for innovation and closing the digital divide.

The Erinma Oke Foundation, named after Springs’ late mother, also runs women empowerment programmes in the state.

During the Easter celebration, the foundation distributed palliatives to over 100 women and is planning further vocational training initiatives.

“Our work is about transforming lives, building sustainable communities, and ensuring no one is left behind,” Springs said.

She has received several recognitions for her work, including a citation from Maryland Governor Wes Moore for outstanding services to the citizens of the state, and an award from the first lady of Abia for contributions to the advancement of women in Nigeria.

Springs also runs the Hit Me with Music Foundation in the US, which uses music and creative expression to support disadvantaged children, including those with special needs.