The Nigerian Communications Satellite, NIGCOMSAT, Limited is set to launch an empowerment programme for young Nigerians from six states in the North East region.
The region includes Borno, Taraba, Bauchi, Gombe, Yobe, and the host state, Adamawa.
The programme, a regional Space-Tech Hackathon themed “Building Grassroots Innovation in Satellite Technology”, is scheduled to take place from February 24 to 28 in Yola.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by the head of the Corporate Affairs Department at NIGCOMSAT, Aisha Bantam, in Abuja.
Designed to engage and empower young Nigerians, the Hackathon will bring together university students, local innovators, and young professionals from the six states.
According to the statement, participants will undergo V-SAT training and work on identifying community problems that can be solved using space technology.
The training will impact NIGCOMSAT’s communication satellite and the National Space Research and Development Agency’s satellite, as well as other emerging technologies.
Each participating state will host a five-day hackathon, allowing ample time for participants to develop ideas, build prototypes, and receive mentorship.
The Managing Director of NIGCOMSAT Ltd, Jane Egerton-Idehen, said the winning teams would seamlessly transition into the NIGCOMSAT Accelerator Programme cohort 2025.
“There, they will further refine their solutions and receive mentorship and resources to help bring their products to market.
“The Hackathon is designed to engage and empower young university students, local innovators, and young professionals from Imo (Southeast), Ondo (Southwest), Adamawa (Northeast), and Jigawa (Northwest).
“Adamawa will host the first Hackathon for the North-East region in a series of four regional hackathons,” she said.
The Managing Director stated that the goal was to ensure sectoral growth, raise awareness about the role of satellite technology in solving real-world problems, and foster economic and social impact.
The Hackathon aims to inspire and equip young Nigerians across all regions to explore and develop solutions that address community challenges, ultimately reducing youth unemployment by engaging them in meaningful problem-solving activities.
The event will be co-hosted by the Adamawa State Government in collaboration with NIGCOMSAT Ltd.
NAN
