The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has stated that achieving the Federal Government’s target of building a $1 trillion economy will depend largely on ensuring that every Nigerian has access to digital opportunities.
Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr Aminu Maida, made the observation at the conclusion of the fourth edition of the NCC Hackathon Live Show in Abuja.
Represented by the Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management, Rimini Makama, Maida stressed that meaningful economic growth cannot be achieved if vulnerable groups, particularly persons with disabilities, remain excluded from the digital ecosystem.
According to him, access to digital technologies has become essential for participation in education, employment, healthcare, financial services and broader economic activities.
He noted that many persons with disabilities still face significant barriers, including inaccessible digital platforms, limited digital skills, high costs and inadequate access to assistive technologies.
“Nigeria today stands at a pivotal crossroads. As we work to build a resilient and diversified one-trillion-dollar economy, we must recognise that true national progress is impossible if some citizens remain locked out,” he said.
Maida added that the commission was committed to promoting locally developed technological solutions capable of addressing accessibility challenges and expanding digital participation.
The NCC chief explained that initiatives such as the hackathon were designed to encourage innovation and position Nigeria as a producer rather than merely a consumer of digital technologies.
At the competition, Abdulhaqq Somoye, founder of Sora Solutions, emerged overall winner and received a N3 million prize. Clear Signal finished second, while Ikor Solutions secured third position.
Director of the Digital Economy Department at NCC, Hellen Obi, commended participants and acknowledged support from institutions including the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, and MTN Nigeria.
She expressed optimism that the innovations developed through the programme would contribute to building a more inclusive digital economy.
