Calay News
In Nigeria, eSports is gaining popularity, and the country is looking to become a key player in this field on a continental level. While South Africa currently leads the African eSports scene, Nigeria, with its huge population of 215 million, wants to tap into its potential to excel in this field. Nigerian youth, known for their competitiveness, represent a sizeable player base. While there are challenges, such as poverty, power outages, and uneven network quality, eSports offer an opportunity for young people and can help lift people out of poverty.
The country has few professional gamers at present, but numbers are increasing since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. eSports are seen as an avenue for economic livelihood, and some Nigerian professional gamers are already earning significant incomes. However, there are hurdles to overcome, such as the high cost of equipment and generators needed for reliable electricity. In addition, internet connectivity in Nigeria presents challenges, as game servers are primarily located in Europe, North America, and Asia, resulting in slow reaction times and delays in online play.
Despite these challenges, a major video game tournament in Lagos brought together thousands of enthusiasts who enjoyed Street Fighter, FIFA, and Call of Duty competitions, as well as concerts by local artists. The country is looking to boost eSports as an opportunity for youth and as a means to stand out on the global stage. While the road ahead may be difficult, Nigerian gamers are determined to overcome the obstacles and achieve success in the world of eSports.
