E-sports, a form of video game competition, has been around since the 1900s, but it wasn’t until the late 1990s that it started gaining significant popularity worldwide. In Nigeria, the e-sports industry is still in its infancy but is rapidly growing, showing immense potential.
The journey of e-sports in Nigeria began to take shape with small-scale events like the South African Gaming Championships (SAGC) in 2005 and the West African Gaming Expo (WAGE) in 2013. However, launching the African Esports Championship (AEC) in 2017 marked a significant turning point. This event brought together players from across the continent, including Nigeria, and was broadcast to a global audience.
The legalization of betting in Nigeria has also played a role in the growing popularity of e-sports. The inclusion of e-sports betting has attracted a new audience, adding an extra layer of excitement for fans.
Fans can now find today betting tips on popular online platforms, enhancing their engagement with e-sports events and tournaments. This aspect of betting not only increases viewership but also contributes to the overall growth of the e-sports industry in the country.
The African Games for Esports (AGE)
A landmark event in the Nigerian e-sports scene was the African Games for Esports (AGE) held in Lagos in 2020. This event, the first Pan-African e-sports event in Nigeria, featured over 300 players competing in popular games like Tekken, FIFA, PES, and Mortal Kombat.
The AGE, with a prize pool of $50,000, was a major milestone in showcasing the talents of Nigerian gamers and the potential of e-sports in Africa.
Factors driving E-Sports growth in Nigeria
Several factors contribute to the growth of e-sports in Nigeria:
Technological advancements
The availability of high-speed internet is a game-changer, allowing for seamless online gaming experiences. This connectivity is crucial for training and competing, enabling Nigerian gamers to participate in international tournaments without geographical constraints.
Additionally, more powerful and affordable gaming devices have democratized access to high-level gaming.
Popular games
The popularity of certain games acts as a catalyst for the e-sports movement in Nigeria. Titles like League of Legends, Call of Duty: Warzone, FIFA 22, and PUBG resonate with the Nigerian youth, creating communities and fanbases around these games. These games offer diverse genres, from strategic team-based games to sports simulations, catering to a wide range of interests and skills
Economic potential
E-sports offers lucrative opportunities for gamers and content creators. For instance, professional FIFA player Akintoye Arogunmati, a.k.a The_Arogs, earns significantly more than the average minimum wage in Nigeria through e-sports.
Social media and streaming platforms
The role of social media and streaming platforms in developing e-sports in Nigeria cannot be overstated. Platforms likehTwitc, YouTube, and Facebook Gaming have revolutionized how e-sports content is consumed and shared. They provide Nigerian gamers the means to broadcast their gameplay, interact with fans, and build communities around their content.
The visibility has been instrumental in popularizing e-sports in Nigeria, creating opportunities for sponsorships, and enabling gamers to monetize their content through advertising and subscriptions.
Moreover, these platforms have facilitated the creation of a global audience, allowing Nigerian gamers to gain international recognition.
Conclusion
The e-sports industry in Nigeria, though still developing, has shown remarkable progress. With continued support and investment, it has the potential to become a significant player in the global e-sports arena. The dedication and talent of Nigerian gamers are key drivers in this journey, promising a bright future for e-sports in the country.