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NIGCOMSAT Unleashes Space-Tech Hackathon for North-East Youths

By Achimi Muktar

A groundbreaking innovation wave is about to sweep through Nigeria’s North-East as the Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Limited launches a Space-Tech Hackathon to empower young minds. Themed “Building Grassroots Innovation in Satellite Technology,” the event is set to take place from February 24 to 28 in Yola, Adamawa State.

A Platform for Innovation and Growth

This initiative, aimed at university students, local innovators, and young professionals across the region, is the first of four regional hackathons designed to harness local talent in space technology. The Adamawa edition will bring together participants from Borno, Taraba, Bauchi, Gombe, Yobe, and Adamawa to explore cutting-edge satellite solutions.

The Managing Director of NIGCOMSAT Ltd, Mrs. Jane Egerton-Idehen, emphasized that winning teams from the hackathon would be enrolled into the NIGCOMSAT Accelerator Programme 2025, where they will refine their ideas, receive mentorship, and gain access to resources to transform their concepts into market-ready products.

Training in Emerging Technologies

According to Aisha Bantam, Head of Corporate Affairs at NIGCOMSAT, participants will receive hands-on training in Very Small Aperture Terminal (V-SAT) technology, alongside workshops focusing on problem-solving through space technology. The hackathon will also leverage the capabilities of NIGCOMSAT’s communication satellite, the National Space Research and Development Agency’s (NASRDA) satellite, and other emerging technologies to build real-world solutions.

Government Collaboration and Economic Impact

The hackathon is being co-hosted by the Adamawa State Government in collaboration with NIGCOMSAT Ltd., underlining the government’s commitment to fostering technological growth. Egerton-Idehen highlighted the initiative’s potential to raise awareness, promote economic development, and drive technological advancement in Nigeria’s satellite sector.

Reducing Unemployment Through Tech

By equipping young Nigerians with vital skills in satellite technology, this initiative aims to reduce youth unemployment and encourage meaningful engagement in tech-driven solutions. The program provides an opportunity for participants to showcase their abilities, contribute to real-world problem-solving, and tap into Nigeria’s growing digital economy.

About NIGCOMSAT

NIGCOMSAT Limited, a government-owned entity under the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, manages and operates Nigeria’s communication satellites. It provides critical services in telecommunications, broadcasting, broadband, and navigation, playing a pivotal role in national security, education, and e-governance.

Aspiring participants are encouraged to seize this life-changing opportunity by submitting their applications promptly. The future of Nigeria’s space-tech revolution begins here!