NIMASA Removes Age Barrier for 2026 Blue Economy Hackathon, Opens Doors to More Nigerians The agency says the decision will broaden participation and create more opportunities for innovation in Nigeria’s maritime sector.

NIMASA Removes Age Barrier for 2026 Blue Economy Hackathon, Opens Doors to More Nigerians

The agency says the decision will broaden participation and create more opportunities for innovation in Nigeria’s maritime sector.

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has announced the removal of the age restriction for participation in its 2026 National Innovation Hackathon, organised under the NIMASA Blue Economy Accelerator Programme (NIMASA-BEAP).

The decision is expected to widen access to the initiative by allowing more Nigerians, irrespective of age, to explore opportunities for innovation, creativity and problem-solving within the country’s maritime and blue economy sectors.

The National Innovation Hackathon is designed to encourage innovative ideas and solutions capable of addressing challenges and unlocking opportunities in the maritime industry, while supporting the development of Nigeria’s blue economy.

By removing the age barrier, NIMASA is opening the door to a broader pool of potential participants, including innovators, entrepreneurs, technology enthusiasts and other Nigerians with ideas that could contribute to the growth and development of the sector.

The move also highlights the importance of inclusive participation in building a sustainable blue economy, where innovative thinking and practical solutions can contribute to economic growth, job creation and improved efficiency across maritime-related activities.

The blue economy encompasses economic activities linked to oceans, seas, rivers and other aquatic resources, including shipping, fisheries, marine transportation and related industries.

Interested Nigerians are encouraged to follow official NIMASA communication channels for further information on the hackathon, including eligibility requirements, application procedures, deadlines and other programme details.

With the removal of the age restriction, NIMASA-BEAP 2026 presents an expanded opportunity for Nigerians to contribute their ideas and innovations towards advancing the nation's maritime industry and blue economy.