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The Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) is set to revolutionize grassroots innovation with the launch of its Regional Space-Tech Hackathon, themed “Building Grassroots Innovation in Satellite Technology.”
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It is scheduled to run from Monday, February 24, 2025, to Friday, February 28, 2025, in Yola—the capital of Adamawa State. This pioneering event is designed to engage and empower young Nigerians to harness space technology in solving real-world challenges.
Speaking at the announcement, Aisha Bantam, Head of Corporate Affairs at NIGCOMSAT, explained that the hackathon aims to bring together a dynamic mix of university students, local innovators, and young professionals from the six states of Nigeria’s North-East region, including Borno, Taraba, Bauchi, Gombe, Yobe, and Adamawa.
“This initiative is more than a competition—it’s a launchpad for nurturing digital and satellite technology innovation that can transform our communities,” Bantam said.
Empowering Through Training and Mentorship
Participants will receive comprehensive V-SAT training and will be challenged to identify and solve community issues using state-of-the-art satellite technologies. They will work with tools including NIGCOMSAT’s advanced communication satellite and cutting-edge solutions from NARSDA, along with other emerging technologies, to develop innovative prototypes. Each state will host its own five-day hackathon segment, providing ample time for idea development, prototype building, and receiving expert mentorship.
“The hackathon is a unique opportunity for our youth to transform creative ideas into tangible solutions that address societal challenges, from improving connectivity in remote areas to enhancing emergency communication systems,” explained Mrs. Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, Managing Director of NIGCOMSAT Ltd.
She added that winning teams will seamlessly transition into the NIGCOMSAT Accelerator Programme cohort 2025, where they will receive further mentorship, resources, and support to refine and commercialize their innovations.
A Catalyst for Regional Growth and Youth Empowerment
The event is a critical component of NIGCOMSAT’s broader strategy to drive economic and digital transformation across Nigeria. By fostering a culture of innovation, the hackathon is expected to play a key role in reducing youth unemployment and promoting sustainable growth. It not only empowers young talent with hands-on experience in advanced satellite and digital technologies but also lays the foundation for long-term socio-economic impact in the region.
Co-hosted by the Adamawa State Government, this initiative underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing digital infrastructure and promoting tech-driven development. The hackathon is part of a series of regional events aimed at creating a robust ecosystem that bridges the digital divide and positions Nigeria as a leader in technological innovation in Africa.
NIGCOMSAT setting new benchmark for digital innovation
With strategic investments in training and capacity building, NIGCOMSAT is setting a new benchmark for digital innovation. The outcomes of this hackathon will not only pave the way for advanced satellite technology applications but also stimulate entrepreneurial ventures that can compete on the global stage. As the event unfolds, industry leaders and policymakers will closely monitor its impact, hoping that the innovative solutions developed will spur further advancements in Nigeria’s digital and satellite technology sectors.
