Gateway Games: ESports debuts at NSF, sets sights on $180 billion global market

In a historic first, eSports made its debut at the 22nd National Sports Festival (NSF) — Gateway Games 2024 — with the Nigeria Esports Federation declaring its intention to harness the industry’s £180 billion global value to drive the country’s sports economy.

The Chief Operating Officer of the Nigeria Esports Federation, Damilola Pedro, described the demonstration of eSports at the NSF as a bold step towards recognising a fast-growing sector with massive economic and social potential.

“Today at the National Sports Festival, we are not just adding another game — we are making a very bold statement,” Pedro said.

“Esports is taking the stage. And with it, so is the voice of an entire generation that has long been ignored, misunderstood, and underestimated.”

Citing industry data, Pedro noted that the global video game industry is currently worth over $180 billion — larger than the combined film and music industries — with more than 3.3 billion players worldwide.

Africa, she added, is projected to be the fastest-growing gaming market, and Nigeria is expected to emerge as one of the world’s top three gaming populations by 2027.

“In 2023 alone, eSports tournaments paid out over $350 million in prize money,” Pedro said.

“Nigeria, with over 70% of its population under the age of 30, is not just ripe for this moment — we are the movement.

Esports is not just gaming; it is strategy, communication, leadership, and performance under pressure.”

She stressed that at a time of rising unemployment, the eSports industry offers a new frontier for employment, education, and empowerment — all without dependence on oil.

“This moment is our validation,” Pedro said, referring to the NSF inclusion.

“It shows we belong at the national level and on the global stage.

“With the right support, Nigeria can become a global hub for competitive gaming,” she said.

Pedro appealed to the media to join hands with the Federation in framing the narrative around eSports for better public understanding and acceptance.

“This is our call to the media — our storytellers and interpreters of culture — to help the nation see the importance of this moment,” she said.

She also urged sports stakeholders across the country to align with the growing movement rather than risk falling behind.

“Partner with us now, or play catch-up later,” she warned.

“This is not a hobby. This is the future of work.

“Our youth are preparing for the next industrial revolution through eSports,” she added.

Pedro expressed appreciation to the Federal Government and the National Sports Commission, led by Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director-General Hon. Bukola Olopade, for embracing innovation and supporting the inclusion of eSports in the national sports agenda.

“We are extremely grateful for the visionary leadership of the National Sports Commission.

“Your support has given us the platform to prove that eSports is a legitimate and strategic part of Nigeria’s sports future. We will make you proud on the global stage,” she said.

Also speaking, the President of the Nigeria Esports Federation, Messiah Makori, described the inclusion of eSports in the NSF as a milestone that marks the beginning of greater accomplishments for the country.

“The entire eSports family is proud to be part of this history. This is only the beginning. Nigeria will play a major role in shaping the global eSports landscape,” Makori said.

With its NSF debut, eSports is now positioned not just as a recreational activity, but as a powerful tool for national development, youth empowerment, and global economic participation.

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