By Progress Godfrey
ABUJA – The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has intensified efforts to advance digital inclusion by supporting the development of technology solutions designed for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) and other underserved groups through the 2026 NCC Hackathon Live Show.
Speaking at the opening of the fourth edition of the hackathon in Abuja on Wednesday, the Executive Commissioner, Stakeholder Management, Rimini Makama, represented by the Director of Operations, Usman Malah, said the initiative demonstrates the Commission’s commitment to building an inclusive digital society where technology serves everyone regardless of physical ability, gender, age or location.
Held under the theme, “Technology Without Barriers,” the two-day event brought together young innovators, software developers, researchers, entrepreneurs and PWDs to develop practical solutions aimed at improving access to communication services and participation in Nigeria’s digital economy.
Makama noted that while digital technologies continue to transform lives and economies, many persons with disabilities still face challenges in accessing communication services, education, healthcare, employment opportunities and government platforms.
She said the Commission is committed to creating an enabling environment that supports indigenous technologies capable of addressing these barriers.
“Today, we celebrate the ingenuity and creativity of young innovators developing practical technology solutions that address real societal challenges, particularly those affecting persons with disabilities and underserved communities,” she said.
Also speaking, Director of Digital Economy at the NCC, Helen Obi, said the hackathon was conceived as a platform to promote indigenous innovation and homegrown solutions tailored to the needs of Nigerians who have been excluded from active participation in the digital economy.
According to her, the initiative seeks to foster digital inclusion by supporting local technology development and building functional assistive solutions that ensure universal access.
She explained that the Commission is encouraging innovations that eliminate physical and communication barriers while addressing challenges linked to literacy, income and geographic location.
Obi disclosed that participating teams are developing solutions in areas such as artificial intelligence-powered speech-to-text applications, real-time sign language translation, voice-enabled complaint systems, accessible customer care platforms, image-to-voice navigation tools and inclusive employment platforms for persons with disabilities.
She added that the Commission is particularly interested in technologies that can function on low bandwidth and offline environments, making them suitable for remote and rural communities where internet access remains limited.
“The objective is to ensure that no Nigerian is excluded from digital opportunities because of physical ability, language barriers, location or income level,” Obi said.
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