Sports
Measuring The Potentials of the Gaming Industry in Nigeria
Nigeria’s gaming industry is on the rise. Key factors driving this growth include significant advancements in internet access and the widespread availability of affordable smartphones.
With it, the niche within gaming that is iGaming or online gambling is also gaining popularity. A recent report by PWC revealed that the rise in Nigeria’s gaming industry is also driven by the growing young middle-class demographic, challenging the stereotype of it being limited to lower-income earners.
The economic recession has also boosted gaming as unemployed youth seek additional income. Sports betting is the most popular but slot games are also increasingly common as many play Lucky Blue or other titles on trusted online casinos.
Improved mobile penetration, increasing from 36% to ~50% in three years, and enhanced payment platforms have broadened the customer base. Business Monitor International predicts mobile subscribers will rise from 153 million to 182 million by 2021, further expanding the gaming user base. A similar thing can be said about the user base of internet service providers.
As of Q3 2023, Spectranet led the ISP market with 113,869 active customers, followed by FiberOne with 27,000. During the same quarter, new contender Starlink had 11,207 customers and its Q4 showed a 113% increase.
Popular Gaming Trends
Mobile gaming is at the heart of almost every Nigeria’s gaming community. Popular titles such as Garena Free Fire and Call of Duty Mobile have become household names. These games are not only popular for their entertainment value but also for the competitive platforms they offer.
Garena Free Fire has garnered a massive following in Nigeria thanks to its regular in-game events and accessibility. This battle royale game’s low system requirements make it accessible even on less powerful devices
Meanwhile, Call of Duty Mobile is known for its high-quality graphics and immersive experience. Its video game predecessor has attracted a significant global player base so it is a given that its mobile version is taking off well. Its various game modes offer something for every type of gamer, including the popular battle royale mode. The game’s success has also spurred local tournaments that add to the growth of the esports scene.
Although well-known studios remain the apex predators, indie game development is also on the rise. Local developers are increasingly gaining recognition for their innovative approaches and unique content. Many Nigerian developers produce games with studios like Maliyo Games launching 40 titles so far.
There is also a growing trend towards integrating local content and themes into games. This not only makes the games more relatable to Nigerian players but also introduces global audiences to Nigerian culture. Developers are exploring traditional folklore, historical events, and contemporary issues unique to Nigeria that set Nigerian games apart.
Nigeria’s burgeoning gaming market has also attracted collaborations with major brands. For instance, leading Nigerian game developer Maliyo Games became the first African developer to collaborate with Disney.
The Lagos-based studio has partnered with Disney to launch “Iwájú: Rising Chef” on Disney+. The game celebrates Nigeria’s culinary delights like Jollof Rice as players run a fun and frenzy restaurant in Lagos as a new chef.
“Through this collaboration with Disney and Kugali, Maliyo Games has captured the essence of Iwájú by bringing their own vision, talent and expertise to a unique game inspired by vibrant Nigerian culture and cuisine,” praised Disney Games’ executive director, Sonoko Ishioka.
Maliyo Games’ founder, Hugo Obi, highlighted the collaboration’s alignment with their mission to showcase African talent globally. It also marks a significant milestone for the Nigerian gaming industry. This partnership underscores the global recognition of Nigeria’s potential in the gaming sector and is expected to inspire more local developers.
Growing communities
Nigeria’s gaming market is valued at $2.14 billion and growing at 11.62% annually. The sector is poised to outpace traditional entertainment industries like movies and music as a significant economic driver.
Communities on social media and gaming forums have created spaces for gamers. The development of gaming cafes and esports arenas is enhancing the infrastructure needed for competitive gaming.
The esports scene in Nigeria is rapidly evolving and is increasing participation and viewership. Esports organizations and tournaments are gaining traction. The recent partnership between Nigeria’s Esports Federation and Moonton Games is expected to further fuel the competitive gaming landscape in Nigeria. The collaboration will pave the way for major esports tournaments in the country.
With continued support and investment, Nigeria could very well become Africa’s premier gaming hub. The potential is immense as Lagos positions itself as a central player. Governor Sanwo-Olu revealed his plans to capture 30% of Africa’s gaming market, projected to reach $4.28 billion by 2024, at the Africa Gaming Expo 2024.
This will require overcoming infrastructure and economic challenges with sustained government and private sector support. Nigeria’s average internet speeds lag behind global averages and the country’s economy’s instability could deter investors.
Yet, Nollywood’s synergy with gaming remains promising. Recent examples like the “Aki and PawPaw” game and the collaboration of Maliyo Games and Disney highlight Nigerian potential to be the frontrunner in this sector in Africa.
The Super Bowl is far more than a football game. Each year, it becomes a global cultural moment, where sport, music, and social conversation collide. Super Bowl LX promises to be no exception. While fans anticipate the on-field clash between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks, much of the world’s attention has shifted to the halftime stage airing on both ESPN and ESPN2 (DStv Channel 219), where three-time Grammy winner Bad Bunny will make history.
The Puerto Rican superstar, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, is set to become the first non-English-speaking artist to headline the Super Bowl halftime show. His selection has sparked debate in the United States, particularly amid ongoing anti-ICE protests, but it also signals a broader recognition of his cultural impact. Known for pushing artistic boundaries and amplifying underrepresented voices, Bad Bunny brings a rare combination of commercial appeal and social consciousness to the NFL’s biggest stage.
The timing of his performance carries added weight. Just a week before the Super Bowl, Bad Bunny made history at the 2026 Grammy Awards, winning Album of the Year for Debí Tirar Más Fotos (I Should Have Taken More Photos). He used his acceptance speech to address immigration and human dignity, declaring: “Before I say thanks to God, I’m going to say, ICE out,” and calling on audiences to respond to hate with love. That statement has heightened expectations that his halftime show will blend spectacle with message, marking a performance that is about identity as much as entertainment.
As anticipation builds, questions linger over how Bad Bunny will translate this cultural moment on the field. Will the show lean entirely into his chart-topping hits, or will it echo the themes of unity and resistance he spoke of at the Grammys? Either way, the performance is already being framed as a defining cultural moment of 2026, with viewers worldwide eager to witness history in the making.
For audiences in Nigeria, Super Bowl LX and Bad Bunny’s historic halftime performance will air live on both ESPN and ESPN2 (DStv Channel 219) on Monday, February 9, 2026, at 12:30 am WAT. Be sure to also take advantage of the ongoing We Got You offer, where you pay for your current package and DStv upgrades you to the next higher package at no extra cost. This offer runs till February 28, 2026.
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
One of the leading financial services groups in Africa, Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) Plc, is championing great experiences and heritage by being the main sponsor of NPA Lagos International Polo Tournament.
The competition is one of Africa’s oldest and most prestigious sporting events and for this year’s edition, it will bring together top local and international polo teams and spectators from across the continent and beyond.
The contest commenced on Tuesday, January 27 at the Lagos Polo Club in Ikoyi and will end on Sunday, February 15, 2026.
The 2026 NPA Lagos International Polo Tournament will feature top‑tier teams competing for major prizes, including the Majekodunmi Cup, Independence Cup, Open Cup, Silver Cup and Low Cup, among others.
Guests can expect a fusion of thrilling equestrian action, polo-inspired lifestyle showcase, and curated hospitality experiences. The event will also be livestreamed, allowing audiences online to share in the excitement and spectacle.
Commenting on GTCO’s role as main sponsor of the Lagos International Polo Tournament, the chief executive of the firm, Mr Segun Agbaje, said, “This tournament, one of the oldest in Africa, celebrates not only the noble sport of polo but the values we hold dear as a brand: teamwork, discipline, fair play, and a commitment to excellence.
“Beyond the field, it showcases Nigeria and Africa to a global audience, reinforcing the continent’s place on the world stage. Our longstanding sponsorship of the NPA Lagos International Polo Tournament reflects our conviction that sport can amplify opportunity, foster connections, and deliver world-class experiences for all.”
The NPA Lagos International Polo Tournament has long been celebrated not only for its thrilling competition and equestrian excellence but also for its rich heritage and cultural resonance within Africa’s sporting tradition. GTCO’s sponsorship embodies the Group’s commitment to creating platforms that unite communities and drive social impact across diverse audiences.
If you’re looking for a fun, reliable, and exciting online betting experience in Nigeria, you’re in the right place. PariPesa Nigeria brings together casino entertainment, sports betting, and modern gaming options designed just for you. Let’s break it all down.
Casino Games
At PariPesa Nigeria, the casino lobby is brimming with exciting games. They are split into categories to help you navigate. You can search for titles using the search bar or narrow down the type of game you enjoy using the filter menu on the left-hand side of the page.
The filters on the left let you pick based on provider, feature, theme, and game types. If there is a title you particularly like, you can also favorite it! There are two separate categories of casino entertainment that depend on your individual casino activity. Recent games are all the ones you have tried, and the favorites section, as you can guess, lists the ones you starred.
Take a look at the main categories of games available.
Slots
Slots are the most popular casino games. They’re beginner-friendly, simple to follow, and you can try them for free in demo mode! At PariPesa Nigeria, you’ll find classic, video, and jackpot slots. Some have Nigerian-themed designs, bright colors, and sound effects that bring the experience close to home.
Table games
Are you a blackjack fan or do you prefer to watch the wheel spin in roulette? Either way, PariPesa Nigeria has a large selection of table games for you to choose from. You will find multiple variations of these titles, along with tables with varying betting ranges. Poker has by far the largest number of variants.
Crash games
These games have extremely quick rounds, so understand the mechanics before you place any real money bets. The concept is simple, really: a multiplier increases, and you cash out before an object “crashes.” The longer you wait, the higher your potential win, but if it crashes before you cash out, you lose that round. Aviator, Chicken Crash, and Doodle Crash are among the more popular games in this category.
Live casino games
Those tired of playing against generated algorithms will find live casino games a welcome break. At PariPesa, you can play poker, blackjack, roulette, and more against a live croupier. You can interact with your dealer and watch everything that happens in real time through video streaming. Remember that these tables are time sensitive, so you will have to place your bets before the window closes, and no, you cannot demo these games.
Sports Betting
Nigerians love sports, and what better way is there to be a part of the action than betting? Football is obviously the favorite, but you can also wager on over 150 sports at PariPesa. You can use the in-house statistics to make well informed bets on your preferred teams and players. Furthermore, the betting markets at PariPesa are top-notch.
- Over/Under
- Total Score
- Match Winner
These are only some of the many, many bets you can place.
eSports
eSports are a hit among young Nigerians. Games like FIFA, CS:GO, and Dota 2 have become part of the sports betting market, and they’re big players. Instead of physical matches, you’re betting on professional gamers competing online.
Virtual Sports
If you enjoy sports but want a quick fix, virtual sports are computer-generated matches that run all day, every day. There are no weather issues and no match postponements or player injuries to affect your strategy. Results are decided by certified random systems, so they’re fair and unpredictable.
Responsible Gambling Policy
No matter what, responsible gaming is an important feature of any online casino platform. PariPesa Nigeria takes this policy very seriously, too. This means you’re encouraged to play for fun, not to chase losses or risk money you can’t afford to lose. You can use the following tools to make sure you don’t go overboard.
- Deposit limits
- Self-exclusion between 6 months and 1 year.
- Session limits
- Regular check-ins
If you ever feel that gambling is becoming a problem, use the resources available online to get help.
PariPesa is synonymous with a complete gaming experience in Nigeria. From casino games and betting to eSports and virtual sports, everything is covered. The navigation is simple, reliable, and let’s be honest, entertaining! So, join PariPesa Nigeria today and enjoy top choices made for people like you!
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