The Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) Limited has announced a new youth empowerment initiative aimed at equipping young Nigerians in the North-West with technological skills while expanding broadband connectivity in underserved areas.
The programme, which features a Space-Tech Hackathon and Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) training, will be held in Dutse, Jigawa State, from April 7 to 11. Participants will include university students, start-ups, and local innovators from Kaduna, Kano, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, and Jigawa states.
Head of Corporate Affairs at NIGCOMSAT, Aisha Bantam, confirmed the development, stating that the initiative seeks to engage and empower young people through practical training in satellite technology.
The event builds on a similar programme NIGCOMSAT held in the North-East in February, which focused on fostering grassroots innovation in satellite technology. That event, co-hosted by the Adamawa State Government, emphasized economic and social impact through technological advancement.
According to NIGCOMSAT’s Managing Director, Jane Egerton-Idehen, the North-West edition will offer participants hands-on experience in satellite applications and mentorship opportunities. The hackathon will challenge participants to identify real-world problems, develop solutions, and create prototypes using satellite technologies.
Winning teams from the hackathon will secure a spot in the NIGCOMSAT Accelerator Programme Cohort 2025, where they will receive additional support to refine and implement their projects.
Beyond the hackathon, 100 youths will be trained in VSAT installation, a critical skill for expanding broadband access in rural and remote areas. Participants who complete the training will receive certification, boosting their employability and opening doors to entrepreneurial opportunities in the ICT sector.
Egerton-Idehen emphasized that the initiative is part of NIGCOMSAT’s broader effort to drive innovation, address community challenges, and combat youth unemployment across Nigeria. The programme will be co-hosted by the Jigawa State Government and NIGCOMSAT Ltd.
