Cross River To Host NIGCOMSAT VSAT Training, Space -Tech Hackathon
By Stella Enenche, Abuja
The Nigerian Communications Satellite (NIGCOMSAT) has disclosed that it would be partnering with Cross River state government to host the the next edition of its acclaimed Regional Space-Tech Hackathon and VSAT Training Programme in Calabar.
According to a statement by NIGCOMSAT on Wednesday, signed by Head of Corporate Affairs Department, Aisha Bantam, the South-South edition would take place from July 21 to July 26, 2025.
The agency said the event is open to startups, local innovators, and students from across Nigeria’s South-South region, urging interested participants to complete their registration via the NIGCOMSAT official website.
“This initiative aims to empower and inspire young Nigerians by bringing together university students, local tech innovators, and young professionals to develop creative, satellite- and space-based solutions to real-world challenges,” NIGCOMSAT said.
Speaking ahead of the event, the Managing Director NIGCOMSAT Mrs. Jane Egerton-Idehen, highlighted that the five-day hackathon would offer participants a unique platform to identify community problems, develop ideas, build prototypes, and receive mentorship from industry experts.
According to her, the winning team would earn a coveted place in the NIGCOMSAT Accelerator Programme Cohort 2025, gaining access to further resources, exposure, and support to implement their projects.
In parallel with the hackathon, 100 young individuals will receive hands-on training in the installation, configuration, and maintenance of Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) systems—a technology critical for delivering broadband internet to underserved areas.
Participants will receive industry-recognised certification, equipping them with in-demand skills that enhance employment and entrepreneurial prospects within Nigeria’s growing ICT sector.
It would be recalled that the earlier editions of the programme were successfully held in Yola, Adamawa State (February 24–28, 2025), and Dutse, Jigawa State (April 7–11, 2025).
Both events witnessed strong participation and laid the foundation for continued regional impact.
The overall vision of the Space-Tech Hackathon and VSAT Training Programme is to harness Nigeria’s youth potential, promote innovation, and deliver scalable, tech-driven solutions to community challenges while addressing youth unemployment nationwide.
