Wema Bank has unveiled the seventh edition of Hackaholics, its flagship innovation initiative aimed at supporting young Africans with technology-driven solutions, introducing three participation tracks, seven innovation verticals and millions of naira in grant prizes.
The programme was announced at a press conference held on Wednesday at the bank’s headquarters in Lagos.
Launched in 2019, Hackaholics serves as a platform for young innovators to develop and scale technology solutions addressing social and economic challenges. According to the bank, the initiative has supported more than 10,000 startups, engaged over 50,000 participants, facilitated the development of more than 100 technology solutions and rewarded winners across its previous six editions with grant funding.
The 2026 edition, themed “Powering Possibilities,“ opens with a nationwide call for applications from innovators developing solutions across seven focus areas: financial inclusion, healthcare, digital transformation, education, sustainability, social impact and the future of work.
Applicants will compete under one of three categories comprising the Startup Pitch Competition, Hackathon and the newly introduced Social Impact Track through the Hackaholics application portal.
Following the application phase, Hackaholics 7.0 will embark on a nationwide tour spanning 10 pitch centres across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. Winners from each regional pitch event will advance to the grand finale, where the overall champions will be selected.
Speaking at the launch, Wema Bank’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Moruf Oseni, said the initiative reflects the bank’s long-term commitment to innovation, youth empowerment and economic development across Africa.
According to him, financial institutions have a responsibility that extends beyond banking services to creating opportunities, supporting innovation and equipping young people with the resources needed to build businesses and contribute to economic growth.
Also speaking, the bank’s Divisional Executive, Business Support, Tajudeen Bakare, said Hackaholics 7.0 provides another opportunity for young Nigerians to transform innovative ideas into viable businesses.
He encouraged aspiring innovators to participate in the programme, noting that the initiative is designed to strengthen Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem while empowering entrepreneurs to develop solutions capable of addressing real-world challenges.
Applications for Hackaholics 7.0 are now open through the programme’s dedicated portal, while updates will be shared on Wema Bank’s website and official social media platforms.
