Wema Hackaholics 7.0: Young Innovators Prepare to Showcase Their Ideas in Nigeria

Wema Hackaholics 7.0: Young Innovators Prepare to Showcase Their Ideas in Nigeria

Young innovators across Nigeria are preparing for an important opportunity as Wema Bank gets ready to host the grand finale of its Hackaholics 7.0 innovation programme on November 6, 2026, in Lagos.

The event, themed Festival of the Future, will bring together young entrepreneurs, technology developers, startup founders, investors and other industry professionals to celebrate creativity and practical solutions to everyday challenges.

Wema Hackaholics 7.0 is an initiative created by Wema Bank to help young Nigerians turn innovative ideas into useful products and businesses. Since its launch in 2019, the programme has provided opportunities for young people to develop their ideas, receive support and connect with people who can help them grow.

##This year's edition has attracted considerable interest. According to reports, 5,329 participants took part in the programme and presented a total of 1,632 ideas and innovative solutions. The nationwide exercise covered seven locations, including Uyo, Kano, Yaba College of Technology, Benin, Ibadan, Enugu and Lagos.

The programme featured three major categories: Ideathon, Hackathon and Social Impact. These categories were designed to accommodate participants with different abilities and ideas. While the Ideathon encouraged people with promising concepts, the Hackathon provided opportunities for technology developers to build practical solutions. The Social Impact category focused on innovations capable of improving communities and addressing societal challenges.

Following the nationwide selection process, 59 participants emerged from the different pitch centres. After further evaluation, 21 finalists were selected to compete at the grand finale.

The finalists include Dynalimb, Harthiq, Acceede, Vhorde, URI, Trarrk, SocialSign, RaverPay, All-Arbitrates, CitizensGage, Craft-Planet, FOID, PayByPalm, Niteonn, Nexa-AI, Neural-Forge, MamaAlert, JolliFlow, Becca, CropiQ and Middleman.

For these young innovators, reaching the final stage represents more than participating in a competition. It provides an opportunity to present their ideas before people who understand the technology and business environment.

##The finalists also stand to gain valuable exposure, mentorship, professional connections and opportunities to attract funding and strategic partnerships. Such support can help young founders improve their products, reach more customers and build sustainable businesses.

The activities leading to the grand finale began on November 4 with a pre-pitch session, where finalists presented improved versions of their solutions. On November 5, participants took part in an ecosystem tour designed to introduce them to leading institutions and professionals in Nigeria's technology industry.

The programme will conclude on November 6 with the grand finale, where outstanding innovators will receive recognition for their work.

Speaking about the programme, Wema Bank's Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Moruf Oseni, explained that Hackaholics was established to provide young Nigerians with the resources, opportunities and support needed to transform their ideas into practical solutions.

##The initiative also reflects the growing importance of young entrepreneurs in Nigeria's economic development. With increasing interest in technology, digital services, healthcare solutions, education and financial inclusion, young innovators have opportunities to develop businesses that address real problems.

However, developing a good idea is only the beginning. Young founders also need guidance, financial support, industry connections and access to markets to turn their ideas into successful businesses.

This is where programmes such as Hackaholics can make a difference. By bringing innovators together with experienced professionals and potential investors, the initiative helps create an environment where promising ideas can receive the attention and support they need.

As Nigeria continues to develop its startup ecosystem, the Hackaholics 7.0 finale offers an opportunity to recognise the creativity and determination of young people who want to contribute to the country's future.

For the 21 finalists, November 6 could become an important milestone in their entrepreneurial journeys. Beyond winning recognition, the connections and experience gained through the competition could help them take their ideas to the next level.