Nigeria’s telecommunications regulator, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is accelerating the localization of innovative solutions to address the indigenous technology needs through empowering innovators.
At a recently concluded ‘Talent Hunt Research Through Hackathon’, organised by the Commission, where three winners emerged from the Blockchain, Renewable Energy and Assistive Technology solutions categories, Executive Commissioner Technical Services, Engr. Ubale Maska, who represented the Executive Vice Chairman, Dr. Aminu Maida, spoke of the essence of the Research Hackathon, noting that it aligns perfectly with one of the core objectives embedded within the new Strategic Vision Plan (SVP) for the years 2023-2025.
He explained: “In a world where innovation is paramount, we often witness the remarkable potential of Hackathons to showcase fresh perspectives on existing challenges. These events serve as instrumental tools in sustaining innovation and mobilizing the collective intelligence of the innovators to tackle pressing real-world issues, both in the business realm and within our social fabric.”
He further pointed out that throughout the years, the Commission had actively promoted hackathon competitions, each with a thematic focus aimed at addressing significant challenges within the nation’s industries and society as a whole. “Some noteworthy examples include hackathons that yielded innovative solutions for issues such as kidnapping and banditry, E-waste management, and strategies to mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic.”
This year’s event focuses on three pivotal thematic areas that not only pertain to Nigeria as a nation, but also resonate with global concerns.
These themes are:
- Blockchain-enabled Data Protection Solutions for Enhancing Regulatory Compliance,
- Assistive Technology Solutions for the Elderly and People with Disabilities,
- Technology Solutions for Renewable Energy in Rural Areas
Aside the grand prize of ten million Naira (N10,000,000.00) awarded to each winner from these three thematic areas, the Hackathon will be preceded by an Incubation and Mentorship Programme, which will be designed to equip startups, innovators and tech entrepreneurs with the necessary skills to refine their ideas.
This phase encompasses critical aspects such as determining product-market fit, navigating intellectual property challenges, and constructing robust business plans. “But it goes beyond this, as the Commission takes a holistic approach to support these promising innovations. We closely monitor the progress of these solutions as they evolve into full-fledged prototypes.
Additionally, it offers us the opportunity to gauge the impact that these grants and prizes have had on the beneficiaries and the industry.
The journey does not end here. The next stage involves the Adoption of Digital Innovative Services and Products stemming from the Hackathons. In this initiative, our Commission takes the lead in sponsoring the deployment of the finalized products within select government agencies and institutions.”
Also speaking at the end of the Hackathon, Director Research and Development Department, NCC, Alh. Ismail Adedigba, explained that innovation in communication technologies stands as the driving force behind the very essence of the Telecommunication industry today.
According to him, technology has emerged as the catalyst that unleashes unprecedented potential in ways we could scarcely fathom. “Consequently, the advancement of the telecommunication sector should be a collective concern for all of us. The rate of growth experienced by the telecom sector, thanks to innovative research, is nothing short of enviable. It is essential that the vision of the Commission for this Competition resonates profoundly with all stakeholders in general and accelerating our collective prosperity through technical efficiency agenda of the Honorable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy.”
He pledged NCC’s unwavering commitment to building and strengthening the bridge between Tech Hubs and the Telecom industry. “We will persistently encourage innovative research that not only mirrors global innovations but also tailors them to local contexts.”
81 entries were received for the Research Hackathon, from which 12 were shortlisted to participate in the tech innovation contest. Out of the 12 shortlisted, 3 emerged as winners from three thematic focus.
Know-Now Limited emerged winner with N10m prize in the Blockchain Solution category; Solaris GreenTech Hub in the Renewable Energy Solutions category, and in the Assistive Technology Solutions category, Spex Care Limited emerged winner also winning a N10m prize.
The remaining 9 innovators were given N500,000 consolation prize each with certificate of commendation for their participation in the annual contest hosted by the Commission.
The Chairman, Panel of Judges for the Hackathon, Prof. Mohammed Hajiya, commended the Commission for promoting technology innovation, applauded the winners and other innovators who participated and encouraged them to contribute to leveraging their solutions to develop Nigerian economy.
