The Federal Government of Nigeria, in collaboration with Ericsson, is to launch the Connect NextGen Innovation Hackathon. This initiative aims to equip Nigerian youths with cutting-edge technology skills.
This announcement made in a statement from the State House Press Release, signed by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications.
The NextGen Innovation Hackathon is part of the Federal Government’s broader Renewed Hope Agenda, that focus on promoting digital skills and increasing youth participation in the technology sector.
Key Details from the Federal Government
The Office of the Vice President revealed that the four-month programme will officially begin on February 11, 2026, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The Vice President’s office will oversee the initiative.
The NextGen Innovation Hackathon represents a significant step in the Memorandum of Understanding between the Federal Government and Ericsson. Its primary goal is to digitally upskill Nigerian youths in transformative technologies that are shaping industries and everyday life.
Participants will benefit from:
- Hands-on mentoring from experts.
- An eight-week acceleration phase to refine their skills.
- Practical training in key technologies such as 5G, Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and sustainable technologies.
Additionally, participants is encourage to create innovative solutions in areas like digital inclusion, smart cities, agritech, and sustainability. Outstanding teams will gain access to accelerators and further incubation opportunities.
Background
This collaboration builds on the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to partner with global technology leaders. The goal is to close the digital skills gap among Nigerian youths, foster innovation, and prepare them for emerging roles in the digital economy.
