In Nigeria, gaming has long been much more than just a pastime; it’s also been a reflection of culture and a way to create community. From the bustling markets where traditional games like ayo and ludo have brought generation after generation of friends together, to the rise of specific digital gaming sectors in the country, the evolution of this space is tied to the Nigerian spirit.
Today, the country is beginning to carve its place in the global gaming industry. Let’s take a closer look at how this has developed and where it’s headed next.
The Global Gaming Industry
Across the globe, the gaming industry is continuing to evolve at a rapid pace. In particular, technological innovations are reshaping how people interact with games. Trends such as Web3 gaming, still relatively unknown in Nigeria, are gaining momentum, with blockchain technology offering players the ability to be part of decentralized gaming economies.
Console and PC gaming is continuing to push the boundaries of emerging tech like artificial intelligence and virtual reality. Devices like PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X are ushering in the age of cross-play—immersive, multiplayer experiences that brings together players across all platforms (including mobile) in the same gaming environment.
eSports, too, remains a staple sector, with pro gaming events continuing to generate massive audiences. In turn, it’s influencing the types of games that developers put out, with competition, reward and strategy continuing to play a major role.
Amidst this shift, there’s an amalgamation between gaming demographics and audiences, with both casual and diehard gamers exploring more diverse sectors like iGaming. While an increased focus on social experiences and gamification drive the popularity of the casino verticals, the realm of online poker is becoming more appealing due to its competitive and strategic gameplay. Structured campaigns like the PokerStars Power Path are introducing accessible ways for players to gain access to top-level tournaments like the EPT. This new approach caters to both beginners and professionals in the genre, levelling the playing field in an ever-expanding market.
How, then, does the gaming scene in Nigeria compare with the global landscape?
The Digital Shift: Mobile, Consoles, and Beyond
Digital gaming in Nigeria began to kick off with the widespread adoption of mobile phones. Affordable devices coupled with low-cost data plans made gaming all the more accessible to the average Nigerian, particularly since consoles and PCs have historically been high-ticket items that few could afford. Mobile titles like Candy Crush, Call of Duty Mobile, and Subway Surfers dominate downloads, with millions of players engaging on a daily basis. According to a report by Statista, Nigeria’s gaming market revenue is expected to surpass $2585 million by 2025, with mobile gaming accounting for a significant share of the market.
Despite the higher associated costs, console gaming remains a vibrant—if niche—part of the scene. Titles like the inimitable FIFA and Grand Theft Auto franchises are popular among Gen Z and Y, and can often be found on the menus at gaming hubs and lounges across the country.
Competitive Gaming and Celebrity Culture
Even eSports is an area where Nigeria is starting to make its mark. Local tournaments for games like FIFA and PUBG have consistently drawn sizable engagement, with several talented players beginning to emerge from such events.
Despite the challenges of limited infrastructure and sponsorship, the potential for eSports in Nigeria is undeniable— according to Newzoo, Africa’s eSports industry was valued at $837 million in 2022 and it would be impossible to overlook Nigeria’s contribution to that.
Nigerian celebrities are also playing a significant role in bringing gaming into the mainstream. Musicians like Davido and actors like Funke Akindele have long expressed their love for video games, often sharing the top tips and favourite titles across social media. With millions of followers to their name, they’re able to use their considerable influence to bring gaming into new demographics.
Looking Ahead
While the growth of gaming in Nigeria is impressive, some challenges do remain. Infrastructure issues, such as inconsistent internet access and power supply, hinder widespread adoption. The impact of affordability needs to be taken into account too, with high console prices and wireless broadband costs limited accessibility for some demographics.
However, these obstacles also present opportunities for innovation. Mobile gaming, for instance, continues to dominate due to its low barriers to entry. Additionally, gaming cafes and hubs provide up and coming talent with access to high end machines on which to hone their skills.
What’s clear is that Nigeria’s gaming industry is at a crossroads. With a rich history of traditional games and a growing digital ecosystem, the future looks promising indeed.
