The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is looking to young Nigerian innovators for technology solutions that can make life easier for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).The Commission has opened applications for the fourth edition of its Hackathon Live Show, with a particular focus on Artificial Intelligence and other digital tools capable of breaking accessibility barriers.The competition, themed “Technology Without Barriers — Innovative Solutions Targeting Persons Living with Disabilities,” is open to software developers, programmers, UI/UX designers, technology entrepreneurs, start-ups, students, researchers and Persons with Disabilities.For the NCC, the challenge goes beyond developing new technology. The goal is to encourage practical, affordable and scalable solutions that can address some of the difficulties Persons with Disabilities and other underserved Nigerians face when using communications and digital services.The initiative also forms part of the Commission’s mandate to promote inclusive communications services, indigenous content and innovative technologies.
AI Solutions in Focus
Artificial intelligence will feature prominently in the competition.The NCC is seeking AI-powered speech-to-text solutions for low-bandwidth environments as well as AI-powered sign-language recognition platforms.It is also interested in image-to-voice navigation tools, voice-enabled complaint and feedback systems, inclusive job-matching and employment platforms, accessible Unstructured Supplementary Service Data solutions and customer-care systems designed to accommodate more users.Other innovative digital solutions addressing accessibility challenges will also be considered.
Who Can Apply?
The competition is open to Nigerians between 18 and 35 years old who are resident in the Federal Capital Territory.The NCC is particularly encouraging Persons with Disabilities, PWD-inclusive teams and individual applicants to participate.Having a finished product is not compulsory. Applicants with existing prototypes or ideas they can demonstrate will have an advantage, but the Commission said promising concepts that are still at the idea stage may also be considered.Entries will be assessed on innovation and creativity, accessibility impact and relevance to the problem they seek to solve.The NCC will also consider technical feasibility, scalability, affordability, sustainability, user-centred design, indigenous value addition, quality of presentation and the ability of applicants or their teams to execute their ideas.
Cash Prizes, Mentorship Await Participants
For those selected, the Hackathon offers more than an opportunity to compete.Participants will receive mentorship from industry experts, accessibility advocates and technology professionals. They will also get the chance to present their solutions before regulators, investors, industry stakeholders and innovation partners.There will be recognition and cash prizes, while promising solutions could move beyond the competition into pilot deployment, further development and possible scaling.Participants may also be considered for future national and international innovation platforms, including potential nomination to relevant global innovation programmes. The programme will equally provide networking opportunities with technology ecosystem players, development partners and government agencies.
How to Enter
Applicants are expected to submit their personal and contact details alongside a brief description of their proposed solution, which must not exceed 500 words.The submission should explain the problem being addressed, the expected impact of the solution and, where applicable, the composition of the team. Applicants may also provide a prototype or demonstration link.Applications should be sent electronically to indigenouscontent@ncc.gov.ng, using the subject line: “Application for NCC Hackathon Live Show 4th Edition – Technology Without Barriers.”The deadline is Monday, August 17, 2026. The Commission said applications received after the deadline may not be considered.Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.The Hackathon Live Show will be held from August 26 to 27, 2026, at the NCC Mbora Auditorium, Abuja.The public notice, dated August 12, 2026, was signed by Nnenna Ukoha, Director, Public Affairs Department of the NCC.
