We are committed to Nigeria’s technological development — NCC

By Eyo Nsima

The Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, has expressed commitment to achieving technological development in Nigeria.

Engr. Ubale Maska, Executive Commissioner, Technical Services, NCC, disclosed this in his keynote speech at the Commission’s 2023 Talent Hunt Research through Hackathon in Abuja, Nigeria.

He said: “This occasion is of paramount importance as it aligns perfectly with one of the core objectives embedded within our new Strategic Vision Plan (SVP) for the years 2023-2025. Our primary aim is to foster the development of cutting-edge technologies through rigorous research, thereby catalyzing sustainable economic growth and overall development within Nigeria.

“In a world where innovation is paramount, we often witness the remarkable potential of Hackathons to showcase, fresh perspectives on existing challenges. These events serve as instrumental tools in sustaining innovation and mobilizing the collective intelligence of the innovators to tackle pressing real-world issues, both in the business realm and within our social fabric.

“Throughout the years, the Commission has actively promoted hackathon competitions, each with a thematic focus aimed at addressing significant challenges within our industries and society as a whole. Some noteworthy examples include hackathons that yielded innovative solutions for issues such as kidnapping and banditry, E-waste management, and strategies to mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This year’s event focuses on three pivotal thematic areas, those that not only pertain to our great nation but also resonate with global concerns.

These themes are Blockchain-enabled Data Protection Solutions for Enhancing Regulatory Compliance, Assistive Technology Solutions for the Elderly and People with Disabilities, and Technology Solutions for Renewable Energy in Rural Areas.

“Consequently, I am happy to announce that this Talent Hunt Research through Hackathon is just the inception of the Commission’s unwavering commitment to nurturing innovation and nascent ideas. The culmination of this competition is not confined to the grand prize of Ten Million Naira (N10,000,000.00) awarded to each winner from these three thematic areas for the development of their solutions, but goes beyond this, as the Commission takes a holistic approach to support these promising innovations. We closely monitor the progress of these solutions as they evolve into full-fledged prototypes.

“The Hackathon will be preceded by an Incubation and Mentorship Programme, which will be designed to equip startups, innovators and tech entrepreneurs with the necessary skills to refine their ideas. This phase encompasses critical aspects such as determining product-market fit, navigating intellectual property challenges, and constructing robust business plans. Additionally, it offers us the opportunity to gauge the impact that these grants and prizes have had on the beneficiaries and the industry.

“The journey does not end here. The next stage involves the Adoption of Digital Innovative Services and Products stemming from the Hackathons. In this initiative, our Commission takes the lead in sponsoring the deployment of the finalized products within select government agencies and institutions. It is with great pride that I inform you that, thus far, we have successfully adopted all three winning solutions from the 2020 Hackathon. These solutions were meticulously crafted to combat pandemics and epidemics that threatened our nation.

“The first solution, Klasconnect, is an e-learning marvel that fortifies the interaction between instructors and students. Our Commission has spearheaded its implementation in six government schools, strategically located across the six geopolitical zones of our nation.

“The second solution, an Automated Temperature Scanner with Contact Tracing Capability, now graces the Commission’s library, serving as a beacon of advanced technology in our institution.”

He said: “Lastly, we have the SmartClinic, a versatile mobile and web solution that seamlessly connects patients through a mobile health app with a Hospital Information Management System (HIMS). This innovation boasts an array of features, including COVID-19 self-assessment, hospital registration through the app, instant consultation options encompassing chat, voice, and video, and comprehensive documentation by doctors. In another remarkable achievement, our Commission has facilitated the deployment of this solution to four teaching hospitals and two state-owned hospitals across the six geopolitical zones of our nation.

“In conclusion, our commitment to fostering innovation and driving positive change through hackathons and related initiatives remains unwavering. The transformative power of innovation knows no bounds, and together, we will continue to explore uncharted territories, seek groundbreaking solutions, and ultimately, contribute to the progress and prosperity of our great nation.”

Similarly, in his welcome address, Engr. Ubale Maska, Executive Commissioner Technical Services, NCC, said: “We find ourselves in an era marked by rapid change, driven incessantly by innovation and technology. I am deeply convinced that events like this innovative Hackathon, if held regularly, offers us invaluable opportunities to unearth and adapt to new technologies. These adaptations will equip us to effectively navigate the ever-evolving landscape and surmount the current and future challenges facing not only our industries but also our broader societal spheres.

“It is imperative to acknowledge that our young innovators have a pivotal role to play in addressing existing industrial challenges and formulating technology-driven solutions that yield tangible social impact.

“Innovation in Communication Technologies stands as the driving force behind the very essence of the Telecommunication industry today. Technology has emerged as the catalyst that unleashes unprecedented potential in ways we could scarcely fathom. Consequently, the advancement of the Telecommunication sector, and doing so in a manner that is sustainable and ethical, should be a collective concern for all of us. The rate of growth experienced by the Telecom sector, thanks to innovative research, is nothing short of enviable. It is essential that the vision of the Commission for this Competition resonates profoundly with all stakeholders in general and accelerates our collective prosperity through the technical efficiency agenda of the Honorable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy.”

He added: “In conclusion, ladies and gentlemen, success is often the outcome of a harmonious blend of talent, willpower, and hard work. I would like to conclude this welcome address by reiterating our unwavering commitment to building and strengthening the bridge between Tech Hubs and the Telecom industry. We will persistently encourage innovative research that not only mirrors global innovations but also tailors them to local contexts.”