The Federal Government, in collaboration with Swedish telecommunications company Ericsson, has unveiled the Connect NextGen Innovation Hackathon at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja, as part of efforts to position Nigeria as a global hub for artificial intelligence and 5G solutions while expanding technology-driven job opportunities for young people.

Representing Vice President Kashim Shettima at the event, Deputy Chief of Staff Ibrahim Hassan-Hadejia said employment generation remains a top priority of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, stressing that digital skills are central to achieving that goal. He noted that Nigeria’s greatest asset lies in its youthful population, underscoring the need to equip them with access to emerging technologies.

According to him, empowering young Nigerians with digital capabilities will convert the country’s demographic strength into economic growth. He urged participants to see the hackathon as more than a ceremonial event, but as an opportunity to innovate, experiment, and create solutions that can compete globally.

The four-month initiative follows a 2024 Memorandum of Understanding between Ericsson and the Federal Government, as well as the Vice President’s visit to Sweden last year. It is designed for youths, startups, and university students, offering practical training in 5G, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, Internet of Things (IoT), and sustainable technologies. The programme aims to address challenges in areas such as food security, smart cities, and digital inclusion.

Shettima described the hackathon as part of a broader national digital transformation strategy, emphasizing that Nigeria must actively participate in the ongoing industrial revolution driven by advanced technologies. He said innovative solutions developed in Nigeria can have global impact, positioning the country as a supplier of digital solutions.

Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Kingsley Udeh, assured participants of the ministry’s backing in commercialising innovations, promoting research, and transforming agreements into large-scale projects.

Sweden’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Anna Westerholm, commended Nigeria’s vibrant digital ecosystem, describing it as one of the most dynamic on the continent. She highlighted the importance of public-private collaboration and expressed pride in Sweden’s contribution through Ericsson’s long-standing partnership with Nigeria.

Special Assistant to the President on Project Support, Suhdah Ahmed, described the initiative as a move from policy intentions to tangible action, saying the partnership reflects a practical approach to building Nigeria’s digital future.

Ericsson’s Country Manager in Nigeria, Peter Ogundele, noted that the company’s 40-year presence in the country underscores its commitment to advancing innovation and skills development. He referenced the AXN National Hackathon and AXN Educate Programme as part of efforts to strengthen digital governance and capacity building.

Also speaking, Special Assistant to the President on ICT Policy, Salihu Dasuki, said the programme aligns with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda and will create pathways for training and employment in the digital sector.