The Block Hive, a technology hub in Nsukka, Enugu State, has partnered with MTN to provide free internet routers to 5,000 technology users across the South-East.
The initiative is targeted at tech developers, students, entrepreneurs, remote workers and digital creators, with the aim of reducing barriers to internet access and participation in the digital economy.
The Founder of Ginakev Labs and Chief Executive Officer of the organisation, Mr Kevin Okoye, disclosed this during a meeting with MTN officials in Enugu.
Okoye, also known as Ezemmuo Blockchain, said the partnership followed discussions on the rapid growth of the technology ecosystem in the South-East and the need for greater support for young people developing technology solutions.
He said reliable electricity, workspace and internet access remained some of the major challenges facing young people seeking to participate in the digital economy.
“GIDA, the education and skills-development arm of Ginakev Labs, has since 2020 trained over 10,000 youths in digital skills, AI and blockchain technology,” he said.
Okoye said The Block Hive provided workspace, internet connectivity, training and other facilities for developers, entrepreneurs, students, creators and remote workers.
He said the router distribution would be facilitated through The Block Hive and selected technology community activities, including the South-East Blockchain and Games Week 2026.
According to him, the event is scheduled to bring together technology communities across the five states of the South-East.
Okoye said the initiative would help ensure that the cost of acquiring internet equipment did not prevent young people with the skills and ambition to work from participating in the digital economy.
“If someone has a laptop, the skills and the ambition to work, the last thing we want is for the cost of getting a router to become the reason they cannot participate,” he said.
Responding, MTN South-East Regional Representative, Mr Callima Inino, said the telecommunications company was willing to support initiatives that created opportunities for young people and strengthened the technology ecosystem.
Inino said selected 4G and 5G routers, valued at up to N60,000 each, would be provided to eligible beneficiaries at no cost, while beneficiaries would subscribe to applicable data plans.
He said MTN representatives and agents would also be available during the South-East Blockchain and Games Week to provide information on the available devices and assist eligible participants.
Mr Samson Damian, Facility Manager of The Block Hive, said making the devices more accessible would enable more people to participate in technology-related activities.
“Making the devices more accessible means more people can participate, lowering the entry barriers,” he said.
The organisers said the initiative would be implemented through existing technology communities and activities across the five states of the South-East.
