…Paves Way For New Sports Economy
The Nigeria Esports Federation has made a groundbreaking appearance at the 22nd National Sports Festival, also known as Gateway Games, in Ogun State. The event marked a significant milestone for the esports industry in Nigeria, with Chief Operating Officer Damilola Pedro emphasizing the potential of esports to lead the country’s sports economy drive.
Pedro highlighted the vast opportunities presented by the esports industry, citing its global worth of over $180 billion and the projected growth of the gaming population in Africa. With Nigeria expected to have the highest deposit of gamers in Africa and the world by 2027, the COO stressed the importance of embracing esports as a discipline that can employ, educate, and empower the youth.
The demonstration of esports at the National Sports Festival is seen as a validation of the industry’s potential, with Pedro expressing gratitude to the Federal Government and the National Sports Commission for their visionary leadership. The President of the Esports Federation of Nigeria, Yahaya Maikori, also hailed the historic feat, saying it will mark the beginning of bigger achievements for the country’s sports.
Pedro urged stakeholders and players in the sports ecosystem to partner with the Esports Federation to push out the right messages and set the right perspective for the realization of the industry’s full potential. She emphasized that esports is not just a hobby but a revolution that requires collective support and understanding.
With the esports industry poised for growth, the Nigeria Esports Federation is confident that it will make the country proud at international competitions, including the Esports Olympics and the Esports World Cup.
The federation’s historic debut at the National Sports Festival has set the stage for a new era in Nigerian sports, one that is driven by innovation, technology, and the passion of the youth.
