The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has opened a call for applications for the fourth edition of its Hackathon Live Show, themed “Technology Without Barriers,” targeting young innovators to develop accessibility-focused digital solutions.
The programme is open to Nigerians aged 18 to 35 residing in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Applicants are expected to develop solutions in areas including AI speech-to-text tools for low-bandwidth environments, voice-enabled complaint and feedback systems, AI-powered sign language recognition platforms, image-to-voice navigation tools, inclusive job-matching and employment platforms, accessible USSD solutions, and inclusive customer care and support systems, among other innovations focused on accessibility.
According to the NCC, applicants with existing prototypes or demonstrable ideas will have an added advantage, though innovative concepts still at the idea stage are also welcome.
The commission specifically encouraged persons living with disabilities (PWDs), both as individual applicants and as part of inclusive teams, to apply.
Selected participants will get the opportunity to take part in a national innovation challenge, receive mentorship from industry experts, accessibility advocates and technology professionals, and showcase their solutions before regulators, investors and other stakeholders.
Winning teams stand to gain cash prizes, opportunities for pilot deployment, and potential nomination to global innovation programmes, as well as networking access to ecosystem players, investors and government agencies.
To apply, interested persons are to submit their personal and contact details, a brief description of the proposed solution (maximum 500 words), a description of the problem being addressed, expected impact of the solution, team composition where applicable, and an optional prototype or demo link.
Applications should be submitted electronically to indigenouscontent@ncc.gov.ng, with the subject line: “Application for NCC Hackathon Live Show 4th Edition – Technology Without Barriers.”
The deadline for submissions is Friday, August 7, 2026.
