Jane Egerton-Idehen, managing director of NIGCOMSAT.
The Nigerian Communications Satellite Ltd (NigComSat), a government-owned company that manages the country’s communication satellites, has begun a regional training program to provide young people with satellite knowledge.
The initiative, which is titled “Building Grassroots Innovation in Satellite Technology,” will begin with a five-day Space-Tech Hackathon in Yola on February 24–28.
Aisha Bantam, head of the corporate affairs department at NIGCOMSAT, confirmed this in an Abuja statement.
According to a press release, “The program targets university students, local innovators, and young professionals from six states: Borno, Taraba, Bauchi, Gombe, Yobe, and Adamawa.”
Participants will learn about Very Small Aperture Terminal (V-SAT) technology and explore applications for NIGCOMSAT communication satellites, National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) satellites, and other developing technologies.
According to Jane Egerton-Idehen, managing director of NIGCOMSAT, the hackathon intends to inspire young Nigerians to create innovative solutions to community concerns utilising space technology.
She stated that the winning teams would move on to the NIGCOMSAT Accelerator Programme in 2025, where they will receive mentorship and resources to refine and sell their solutions.
“This initiative is designed to drive sectoral growth, raise awareness about satellite technology, and create economic and social impact,” she stated. The event is the first of four regional hackathons scheduled for Nigeria.
She said Adamawa will be the first host for the North-East edition, kicking off a series of four regional hackathons.
The initiative aims to minimise youth unemployment and promote meaningful engagement in technology-driven issue solving by inspiring and equipping young Nigerians with the skills they need to build solutions to community challenges.
NIGCOMSAT is critical to strengthening Nigeria’s space technology sector, promoting economic growth, and supporting national security, education, and e-governance projects.
