YUSUPH MUSTAPHA writes on the emergence of eSports as competitive gaming and online entertainment in Nigeria.
The online gaming industry is booming and there are several lucrative business opportunities available to entrepreneurs and investors. From game development to eSports there is something for everyone in the growing market.
eSports, or electronic sports, is competitive video gaming at a professional level. Its popularity across the world has exploded in recent years, and Nigeria is no exception.
Nigeria has a budding eSports scene. Some of the most popular eSports games in Nigeria include League of Legends, Call of Duty: Warzone, FIFA 22, PUBG and Fantasy Football.
Technology is responsible for most of the growth in eSports. The availability of high-speed internet and quality gaming devices has made it possible for gamers to compete online.
In a recent interview with The Guardian Akintoye Arogunmati, a.k.a “The_Arogs”, one of Nigeria’s best professional FIFA players, says he earns an average of 300,000 naira (420 euros) per month.
This is 10 times the minimum wage of 30,000 naira. The esports industry in Nigeria has the potential to become an economic driver.
It can create jobs, generate revenue, and attract investment. It can also help in promoting Nigeria as an innovation and technology hub.
Technology has been instrumental in the growth of eSports in Nigeria, with key contributions including:
The availability of high-speed internet: High-speed internet is fundamental for esports; without it, gamers cannot compete online with each other. Thanks to the investments in infrastructure and the growth of mobile internet, high-speed internet coverage in Nigeria has increased in recent years.
Development of more powerful and affordable gaming devices: Gaming devices have become more powerful and affordable in recent years, effectively reducing the entry requirements for gamers to play at a higher level. This is important for esports, as it allows players to compete on a level playing field.
The rise of social media and streaming platforms: social media and streaming platforms have made it easier for gamers to connect with each other and share their content to a global audience. This has helped in growing audiences and creating opportunities for gamers to make money.
The eSports industry in Nigeria has a lot to offer gamers and content creators, some of these benefits include:
Opportunities to compete at a professional level: The industry offers gamers an unconventional opportunity to compete at a professional level and earn a living from gaming.
A platform to showcase their skills and talents: it also provides a platform for gamers to showcase their skills and talents to a global audience.
A source of income: Gamers and content creators can earn money from streaming, sponsorships, and prize money.
The eSports industry in Nigeria is still in its early stages and has a long way to go, but it has the potential to grow exponentially in the coming years.
With the right support, it could become a major force in the in the projected $6.7 billion eSport industry.
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